Steven Gerrard has opened up about plans to streamline his squad, as quoted by the Daily Record.
The Rangers manager has brought plenty of new faces into the club since his arrival in May 2018. However, there hasn’t been a huge amount of departures.
That now looks set to change.
Several players set for exit
Speaking from the club’s pre-season training camp in the Algarve, Gerrard says he’s already spoken to multiple players to inform them their future lies elsewhere.
“I try to be respectful and honest with every player,” he explained, as quoted by The Daily Record. “The squad is big, we have 28 players with us. The board haven’t put me under any pressure but you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to work out it’s too big.”
“I’ve had to tell people they won’t get the game time that will satisfy them. It’s not as brutal as saying: ‘Get out as quick as you can, we don’t respect or love you any more.’
“But a manager has to make tough decisions and go with what you think is the best prepared squad to challenge. I’ve had difficult conversations with certain players but I hope they understand I’m trying to be respectful in giving them as much time as possible to find a different route.
“It’s easy for a manager to be selfish and keep them for as long as you want before telling them later in the window. That’s not fair. I want to give people the best chance of finding a solution. That’s why I’ve told people as early as I can. Certain conversations took place even at the back of last season.”
Verdict
It’s never nice to see players asked to leave their club. However, with the sheer number of signings over the last few windows, something simply had to give.
Amongst those in question here are thought to be Eros Grezda, Kyle Lafferty, Graham Dorrans, Jordan Rossiter, and Jason Holt.
Some of those players would have seen the end coming. Others will be disappointed at not being afforded one more opportunity.
Yet, it’s unlikely that any of the Gers mentioned will struggle to find a new home. Jason Holt is reportedly on his way to QPR [Scottish Sun], while an international like Eros Grezda is sure to attract attention from mainland Europe.
