How Steven Gerrard’s first Rangers XI could look with Ibrox announcement now due – Multi-million star out
Steven Gerrard is expected to be announced as the new Rangers manager over the next few days.
Gerrard held successful talks with Andrew Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe in London on 9 October to discuss the potential opportunity of returning to Ibrox.
Reports have emerged that Gerrard could be announced as Rangers manager today, with fans excited to see their 2020-21 title-winning hero back in the dugout.
He has a much tougher job on his hands this time around as he looks to rebuild the confidence of many Rangers players who have failed to deliver this season.
Steven Gerrard won’t select unfamiliar team in his first Rangers match
Gerrard built his success at Rangers by using experienced players who had the mentality to withstand any pressure of what it meant to play for in Govan.
His first match would come against Dundee United on 18 October, as the Rangers board will be looking to turn over a new page in their history following Russell Martin’s disastrous spell in charge.
Gerrard is extremely popular with Rangers fans, although doubts have been cast over his managerial record since leaving Glasgow.
- Left Rangers for Aston Villa in November 2021
- Was sacked as Aston Villa manager after just 11 months in charge
- Spent over two years at Saudi club Al-Ettifaq, but was sacked in January 2025 after having a disappointing win percentage of 39 per cent
Gerrard played a 4-3-3 formation for much of his first spell at Rangers, and this could benefit certain profiles within the squad.
Rangers will benefit from Nico Raskin playing in an advanced position, with the Belgium international looking to replicate his fantastic numbers of last season.
Connor Barron could thrive under Gerrard, with the midfielder’s calmness on the ball proving to be a huge asset to Rangers when he’s played this season.
However, it is unlikely that Gerrard will select players who were rarely seen under Martin, as he’ll be looking for an instant impact against a Dundee United side who sit fourth in the Scottish Premiership.
That means that £10million summer signing Youssef Chermiti can expect to remain left out of the Rangers starting line-up.
One thing that’s for certain is that Gerrard will look to rely on captain James Tavernier, who will be thrilled to reunite with his old manager.
- Read more: Wayne Rooney hits back at what Steven Gerrard said as Rangers close in on new manager hire
James Tavernier could get back to his best under Steven Gerrard
Tavernier knows Gerrard will raise the standards at Rangers, having been a pivotal part of his team between 2018 and 2021.
The right-back has inevitably struggled defensively this season, yet he is still the Light Blues’ top scorer in the league with three goals.
With the defence constantly chopping and changing under Martin, Tavernier had to play with several different teammates alongside him, which harmed the stability of the side.
As Gerrard’s return edges closer, no one in Glasgow might be happier than the 33-year-old.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Rangers news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account –@ibroxnews247