Reports continue to intensify surrounding Rangers manager Steven Gerrard and Premier League Aston Villa but should the Ibrox gaffer jump recent quotes could sour his legacy.
At least in terms of how he is regarded by Rangers fans even if the manager won the club’s first title in a decade and restored much-needed European pride to Ibrox.
Much has been made about Gerrard’s frustrated comments post-Sparta Prague about transfer fees (or a lack thereof) and the need for investment to continue the club’s growth.
These – for many – give an inclination into Gerrard’s disgruntlement with Rangers’ financial stature and the directorate of the club.
However, for fans loyalty goes hand in hand with Rangers and for a character like Steven Gerrard – who is so often defined by the word – a mid-season exit to Aston Villa feels a contradiction.
Not only that, but the Ibrox manager laughed off reported interest – admittedly during the Newcastle United saga – when pressed on it by Emma Dodds after the Brondby victory.
“Do I look happy? Do I look settled?” Gerrard asked when pressed on the interest [BT Sport].
“Don’t ask me silly questions then.”
These statements are in direct contradiction to the multitude of reports now suggesting that the Rangers manager could leave the club.
It’s certainly not very Steven Gerrard-like.
There’s also the fact that Gerrard assured Rangers fans they had “nothing to worry about” in the “short-term” in the close season. What does that actually mean?
In fairness, Gerrard also touched on the strain living in Glasgow has put on his family.
“I think I’ve learned with experience never to try predict the future,” he said.
“I’m happy in this job – I’m proud to be the Rangers manager.
“I’ve had to sacrifice a lot in the three years. Family issues is the big thing for me. The support I’ve had from my family has been fantastic, but I also have to respect them and where I’m from.
“In the short-term, the Rangers fans have got nothing to worry about.”
Rangers comments could tarnish characteristically loyal Steven Gerrard legacy
Rangers are right in the midst of a four-way challenge and Steven Gerrard – whilst a champion and title winner – is under pressure to deliver in this regard.
It’s not perfect with Stevie G at the helm but fans have stood by him during tumultuous periods and perhaps this moment is the chance for Gerrard to do the same.
It’s true the Villa opportunity might pass him by here – if we ignore the fact they’ve had eight managers in ten years – but jobs like this come up regularly in England.
Nor is this a Celtic fan Brendan Rodgers situation, with Rangers supporters much more respectful of the situation.
It’s not about the move perse, it’s about the timing with a League Cup semi v Hibs after the international break and a massive Europa League clash just days later.
Leaving Rangers in the lurch – especially just weeks after reaffirming his commitment – will surely not go down well with fans who have stood by the manager during his most troubling periods.
As Gerrard potentially weighs up an offer from Aston Villa, should he heed a warning from a former Premier League rival?
