When Steven Gerrard took over at Ibrox, no one doubted the man’s playing pedigree.
A club legend at Liverpool, the dynamic midfielder scored, assisted and led his way into their history books. He was a simply superb footballer. A magical, rare type that only comes around once a generation.
Many did however doubt his managerial pedigree and his managerial capabilities. Especially for taking over a club as big as Rangers. The press sneered. Rival fans joked. But Gerrard quietly set about changing things.
Those doubter’s doubts will now very much be in doubt.
Increasing standards, bringing back our identity
Never has Gerrard wavered from his commitment to the Reds of Anfield. Not at least until Rangers came knocking. It’s fair to say a section of his heart is now blue.
Gerrard has shown a tactical ability and player knowledge which Ibrox has been bereft of for almost 10 years.
But more than that, he’s brought back the standards and identity of a club which was so very nearly on its knees.
On the pitch, Gerrard understands that Rangers are about winning. About sweeping all before them. About doing so as a team, as a unit and onside with the fans. He’s got that through to the players, alongside sweeping, pressing, direct tactics which are heralding results and goals.
Off it, he has composed and handled himself magnificently.
Not since Walter Smith have Rangers had a man at the helm who is so Earth-shatteringly convincing. Gerrard takes no nonsense. He gives none either.
An ambassador for our club
Steven Gerrard has been roundly congratulated in Spain after Thursday.
Not just for leading his team to a point, but also for how he handled himself.
After last night’s 2-2 draw, Gerrard waited on the pitch to shake the hands of all the Villarreal players. It’s something we’re becoming accustomed to at Ibrox. He’s done it plenty of times before then.
It’s a mark of class from Gerrard which not only shines well on him, but on us too.
When so many try to bash us, Gerrard leads.
And fans are convinced he’s taking us in the right direction.
