Rahul Lakhani

Wed 21 May 2025 16:10, UK

Rangers are reportedly close to bringing Steven Gerrard back to the club as their new manager, after weeks of searching.

Barry Ferguson is leaving his role as interim boss, and a permanent manager is desired, with Gerrard now set to return after leaving in 2021.

Rangers have explored several options, including Davide Ancelotti, but now appear ready to bring Gerrard back after fresh talks.

While many are eager to see him return given his title-winning experience at Ibrox, there are already those questioning whether Gerrard is the right man for Rangers.

Kris Boyd gives Gerrard verdict

Gerrard appears to be close to returning to Ibrox, but some may have preferred to see a fresh face come in.

However, Rangers icon Kris Boyd has now claimed that Gerrard’s appointment makes sense, as he truly understands the pressure that comes with the role, which other managers may not.

“There is no doubt that Rangers need to get someone who understands it, gets it, and can deal with the pressures and demands,” Boyd told Sky Sports News (21 May).

“Steven has shown that he can do that, in three years at Glasgow. He’s had it all his life.

“There’s a lot of coaches out there who would be scared to take the Rangers job, given the demands and pressures that comes with it.

With Ancelotti and Russell Martin among the other candidates that Rangers have spoken to, Gerrard does stand out in one particular aspect.

Gerrard understands Rangers pressure

When Gerrard first joined Rangers, he bought into the club’s traditions and values immediately and led a huge rebuild, having inherited a woeful squad.

This saw him restore Rangers to glory after years of struggle, and he also had the character to deal with the intense pressure countless managers have found themselves under at Ibrox.

Gerrard has had two unsuccessful manager jobs since, but is still better-equipped to have a fast start given his previous experience at Rangers, than other candidates such as Ancelotti.

If Gerrard starts well, he will quickly gain the support of the Rangers fanbase, with whom he was popular when he won the Scottish Premiership in 2021.