Steven Gerrard’s Potential Return to Rangers: What You Need to Know
The recent sacking of Russell Martin has thrown Steven Gerrard’s name back into the mix at Rangers. The former Liverpool and England captain is reportedly in talks with the club’s ownership regarding a potential return to Ibrox. This article explores the implications of Gerrard’s possible comeback, his previous tenure at Rangers, and what it could mean for the club moving forward.
Gerrard’s Record During His First Stint at Rangers
Gerrard took the reins at Rangers in the summer of 2018, marking his first managerial role after a stint as a youth coach at Liverpool. His time at Ibrox spanned three full seasons, during which he secured one significant trophy: the Scottish Premiership title in 2020-21. This triumph was historic, ending Celtic’s bid for an unprecedented tenth consecutive title and was achieved with an impressive unbeaten record.
In that championship-winning season, Rangers dominated, winning all home matches, scoring 92 goals, and conceding only 13. While the achievement was marred by the pandemic and empty stadiums, it remains a highlight of Gerrard’s managerial career. Despite winning just one trophy, his ability to galvanize a team that had been struggling for years cannot be understated.
Gerrard’s Performance in Old Firm Matches
In contrast to the struggles faced by his predecessor Martin, Gerrard made an immediate impact in his first Old Firm derby, going 12 matches without defeat until his first loss at Celtic Park. During his debut season, the derby honors were evenly split, with both teams winning at home. However, Gerrard’s tenure saw a gradual improvement; after two losses in his second season, he finally led Rangers to victory at Celtic Park for the first time since 2010.
Under his leadership, Rangers became a formidable force in Old Firm derbies, remaining unbeaten in his final six encounters. His experience in high-pressure matches and his knack for tactical adaptability contributed to a more competitive Rangers, both domestically and in European competitions.
The Reasons Behind Gerrard’s Departure
Gerrard’s departure from Rangers came in November 2021 when he accepted an offer from Aston Villa, who paid £4.5 million in compensation. At the time, he left Rangers sitting at the top of the table, a position they ultimately relinquished to Celtic. The allure of the Premier League, coupled with a desire to take the next logical step in his managerial career, played a significant role in his decision to leave.
Reflecting on his tenure, then-Rangers sporting director Ross Wilson acknowledged that Gerrard and his staff had significantly improved the club. His departure was seen not only as a loss for Rangers but also as a necessary progression in Gerrard’s career as he aimed for a future return to Liverpool.
Assessing Gerrard’s Tenure at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq
Gerrard’s time at Aston Villa was tumultuous; he managed to finish 14th in the Premier League before being dismissed following a poor start to the 2022-23 season. His record at Villa included only eight wins out of 31 matches in 2022, reflecting a series of inconsistent performances.
Following his stint in the Premier League, Gerrard moved to Saudi Arabia, taking charge of Al-Ettifaq. His time in the Middle East lasted 18 months, but the results were mixed, with the team ending low in the league standings. Despite these setbacks, Gerrard has expressed that he gained valuable lessons from these experiences.
What Could a Return to Rangers Mean?
If Gerrard returns to Rangers, he will be tasked with revitalizing a team that is currently facing challenges. His previous experience in the league, coupled with his historical success at the club, could provide the stability and leadership needed to navigate these turbulent waters.
Although recent managerial experiences might raise questions about his readiness to take on such a high-profile role again, there’s no denying that Gerrard has the charisma and knowledge to inspire players. His history with Rangers and understanding of the club’s culture could play a pivotal role in his success should he take the helm once more.
In summary, Steven Gerrard’s potential return to Rangers could be a significant turning point for both him and the club. The prospect of reuniting with a team he once led to glory is enticing, and with the right support and vision, he may once again steer Rangers back to the top of Scottish football.