John Fleck reckons John Lundstram joined Rangers because of Gerrard
John Lundstram has joined Rangers after leaving Sheffield United as a free agent, and Steven Gerrard played a huge role.
The English midfielder’s former teammate John Fleck reckons the Light Blues manager was a special factor in his decision to move north of the border.
Lundstram grew up idolising the Liverpool legend having been born in the city himself, and has jumped at the chance to work under his childhood hero.
“He said they were very interested in him and I said, ‘you need to give it a go’,” Fleck told BBC Scotland.
“He’s probably not gone for Rangers – he’s probably gone just to meet Steven Gerrard.
“I think he’s come out and said it himself. It’s just a thing in Liverpool. He was obviously an amazing player for everyone, but particularly in that city.”
Huge factor
We know Rangers are one of the biggest clubs in the United Kingdom, but the influence Gerrard has had on some of our arrivals cannot be overemphasised.
Playing at Ibrox is appealing, but getting the chance to do it while learning under one of the best midfielders of all time definitely makes it more tempting.
Lundstram proved himself in the Premier League for two seasons despite it ending in relegation for the Blades, and he will be looking forward to helping Rangers defend the Premiership title.
A couple of more signings are expected in the weeks ahead, and the Gerrard factor is definitely going to play a big role.
We are aiming to secure a place in the group stages of the Champions League for the first time in a decade, and players like Lundstram should come in handy.
The friendly games against Tranmere Rovers, Arsenal, Brighton and Real Madrid are the perfect preparatory matches for the Champions League qualifying rounds and new Premiership season, and we need everyone to hit the ground running when the campaign starts in the coming days.
In other Rangers news, Player could land deal with Europa League club after Ibrox exit.