What James Tavernier has said about Steven Gerrard should get Rangers fans excited again
Steven Gerrard is looking increasingly likely to become the next Rangers manager.
Rangers have just won one of their seven league games so far this season, showcasing just how far they have fallen off under the miserable tenure of Russell Martin at Ibrox.
The Light Blues have been stripped of the identity that made them what they are, and lacked any real vision when it came towards building for the future, leaving them with little to no option other than to part ways with the former Southampton boss.
Now that Gerrard is set for talks with Rangers over a potential return, Ibrox faithful should take note of what James Tavernier previously had to say about him.
Steven Gerrard will raise the standards at Rangers
Martin was well-known for his baffling way with words after each and every defeat or draw, but he was also known for the way he completely dismantled the mentality at Rangers.
The Gers lacked belief in every single game, and even when they appeared to be winning comfortably (as rare as that was), there was still something about their demeanour that suggested it was going to go wrong somewhere.
Compare that to the feeling at Ibrox when Gerrard was in charge, and it is night and day.
Not only did the Gers find success under stewardship, but the players looked as though they would run through a brick wall for him, and in Glasgow, when the pressure is constantly weighing down on you, that is crucial.
In an interview with RangersTV back in 2018, Tavernier alluded to the way Gerrard handled situations, and if the same happens if he returns, Rangers will be heading in the right direction.
He said: “I know he is the gaffer now and you do get those little moments when you find yourself going, ‘That’s Steven Gerrard over there’.
“He has raised the standard higher, which has always needed to be done because it has dropped over the years.
“Straight away, I have noticed the standard and where he wants it, and the boys have responded really well. Even from doing small passing drills and our little boxes, the level has already gone up.”
Ultimately, that is exactly what Rangers need right now, and Gerrard looks like he would be a perfect fit.
What is the latest on Steven Gerrard’s return to Ibrox?
Gerrard was due in London on Wednesday evening, with talks planned with Rangers over the next few days.
Rangers sources have stressed that he is not the only candidate in line for the job, though everything is pointing towards him returning.
Gerrard’s record at Rangers
- 192 games
- 407 goals scored
- 139 goals conceded
- 64.8 per cent win rate
- 2.15 points per game
It is believed that the former Liverpool icon is awaiting clarity on the new chain of command at Ibrox before making his final decision on his next move.
Gerrard has been out of work since leaving Saudi Arabian side Al-Eittifaq earlier this year, having spent two years there after his exit from Aston Villa.
With talks accelerating over the next few days, there is a chance that Rangers supporters will be made aware of who their next boss will be over the weekend.
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