Former Rangers chairman Dave King has provided his response to surprising transfer comments made by Steven Gerrard [Glasgow Times].
The Gers squad has almost completely transformed since Gerrard’s arrival at the club in the summer of 2018.
No outrageous transfer fees have been spent, with Ryan Kent the most expensive purchase at £7m, but many signings have been made and the wage bill has increased significantly.
Only four new players were brought in in the summer but a major turnover had never been anticipated and so, it was a surprise when, earlier this month, the manager appeared to hint at a lack of support from the board following a Europa League defeat to Sparta Prague.
Now, King, who worked closely with Gerrard before stepping down as chairman last year, has given his thoughts on the manager’s comment.
“I wasn’t aware of Steven’s comment in that regard and I am a little surprised by it,” said King [Glasgow Times]. “I think obviously context of the comment would perhaps make a difference.”
“If I could perhaps put it this way, that I think Steven is already on record, certainly in discussions I have had with him and comments I have seen him make in the media subsequently, in having pretty much unstinting praise for the support that he has had from the board.
“As far as I am concerned, the board has certainly supported the manager in the transfer market and I think that is his true belief.
“My understanding is that he does recognise that he has been supported, but he is making more a comment that if we are going to make progress in the Champions League we need to start finding other ways to attract players.”
Ex-Rangers chairman responds to Gerrard comment
There was definitely at least a hint of frustration in Gerrard’s answer the morning after the defeat to Sparta Prague and to an extent, that’s understandable after a summer in which the club didn’t spend a penny in upfront transfer fees.
However, it was made very clear by King after his departure and subsequently by other key figures around the club that future spending hinged on player sales.
With no major stars leaving, big spending wasn’t an option and Gerrard has made it clear in the past that he understands that financial reality at Ibrox.
Another window is now just a month and a half away but the situation hasn’t changed, and it would be a big surprise to see a marquee signing in January unless one or two key assets leave the club.
In other news, a Rangers player has hit out on social media amid criticism.
