Rangers went top of the league yesterday, but Steven Gerrard says in truth it actually means nothing.
It’s the first time since 2011 that Rangers have found their way to the top in Scotland. The 2-1 win at Hearts meant so much to the supporters, who feel that this victory symbolises real progress.
Rangers have, in recent seasons, been several points behind Celtic at this stage of the campaign. Now, supporters can be delighted that the club are actually making a title-race of things this term.
Gerrard, however, claims that it means nothing for Rangers to be top of the league at this stage of the season.
“I go straight to work for that game (Aberdeen). I am not interested in the league. You get nothing for it now.
“There is no point getting carried away – we are in early December and you get nothing for it right now.
“People have games in hand and will breathe down our neck but it is a different responsibility. The players know that and we have to handle that”
Proper sign of progress
Fans weren’t celebrating yesterday’s win because it means they’ve won the league. Everyone knows that nothing is dished out at this time of year, especially with so many tough games coming up this month alone.
Rangers fans, however, were just delighted to see that their side are properly breathing down Celtic’s neck. At the moment, Brendan Rodgers’ side can’t afford one slip up. If they do, then Rangers can go top having played the same number of games.
Gerrard, however, has proved he’s a perfectionist. He doesn’t seem interested in being praised for work done at this stage of the season. Instead, he’s got his eyes fixated on May to see where the club finishes.
Yesterday was a huge leap in the Gerrard era, however. So many Rangers teams in the past would’ve bottled the chance yesterday. This side, however, showed real courage after going a goal behind, and their character was on full show in one of the toughest fixtures they’ll have all season.
Going to places such as Tynecastle and winning is one of the final pieces in the jigsaw for Rangers. Next? It’s about keeping their big-game record going against the likes of Aberdeen and Hibs.
Gerrard may not be celebrating anytime soon, but fans have every right to raise a glass to the progress.
