Steven Gerrard has laughed off his Rangers’ comparison to Walter Smith’s Champions League heroes of 1992.
Rangers are closing in on a piece of history tonight that’s flying under the radar. Spartak Moscow are the visitors to Ibrox in the Europa League this evening, and the Gers are closing in on 11 unbeaten games in Europe.
For those unaware, that would be a new club record. The previous record, however, was set by Smith back in 1992/93 when his side went 10 games unbeaten. It’s an incredible stat that shows the consistency of Gerrard’s Rangers side so far this season.
The Rangers manager, however, was quick to point out that his side are nowhere near the standard of Smith’s. Speaking before tonight’s game, Gerrard laughed off the comparison.
“Listen, we’re not ready to be spoken about in the same breath as successful teams in the past. We’re nowhere near ready to be put on a par with teams like that. We cannot be spoken about in the same breath.
“There’s a long, long way to go. We are on the back of a nice run in Europe. We need to protect that and try and extend it for as long as possible. But, in terms of putting us back alongside teams of 10 years ago or 20 years ago, then we’re not ready for that yet.
“I wasn’t aware of the stat. It’s news to me to be honest, which tells you that it’s certainly not my main focus. Milestones like that are always nice, but it’s not our focus.”
Credit where it’s due
Despite the fact that Gerrard will be determined to keep his players’ feet on the ground, they deserve to be acknowledged. It’s a terrific stat, and there’s a reason why Smith’s record hasn’t been broken in 25 years.
It was clearly a much higher class of opposition that Smith faced. After all, Rangers were avoiding losses against the likes of highly talented Marseille and Leeds United sides back in 1992/93.
Rangers haven’t faced that same caliber of opposition in the Europa League, but that doesn’t mean it’s not impressive however. Gerrard’s troops have shown a real solidity from the start of the qualification phase. Since then, however, they’ve just grown into the tournament and are rebuilding the club’s reputation.
Tonight’s visit of Spartak gives the club a chance to boost itself further by creating history. If they can do it, it doesn’t mean they’re the best side to play European football in Rangers’ history.
What it will mean, however, is that they’re capable of making a big impact on the continent.
