Steven Gerrard’s view on Rangers title chances as Celtic and Hearts warned | Football | Sport
It might appear a lofty ambition in his first season back, but Lafferty is certain that due to Gerrard’s mindset, if he lands the job, his sole objective will be to target Scottish Premiership glory straight away.
“If Steven comes in, I wouldn’t rule out him getting the team to hit the ground running,” Lafferty told Record Sport.
“It wouldn’t surprise me if he gets them up there challenging again and fighting for the title this season. Seriously, I wouldn’t be shocked if he won it. He’ll come in expecting to win it.
“He won’t settle for second place. He won’t be thinking: ‘Let’s close the gap on Celtic and Hearts and maybe finish a few points off’.
“I know him and I’ve played under him. He’ll literally come in and think he can win the league this season. That’s the type of person he is.
“He’s full of confidence and belief in his own ability and that’s what the fans want. No manager is going to come in and say they can’t win the title, but making that change now will be a massive lift for everyone at Rangers on and off the pitch.
“Especially knowing that he’s coming to win the title in his first season. Not to get closer to Celtic or Hearts, but to go and win it. If Steven comes in he’ll also have a massive League Cup semi-final to play and a chance to get a trophy in the bag early.
“Celtic have been a lot better in the past than they are now. They’re not at their best at the minute and there are issues with Brendan Rodgers and the board.
“They’re having a tough time of it, but unfortunately it’s been Rangers in the limelight because of results and everything happening with Russell.
“I really hope it gets done with Steven in the next few days and we can all get excited.”
Lafferty is convinced that during Gerrard’s first spell in charge, he reinstated a level of standards at the club unseen since the days of Walter Smith.
“Bar Fergie (Barry Ferguson) last season, it feels like Steven has been the only Rangers manager capable of getting results against Celtic since Walter was there,” added Lafferty.
“That’s a long time ago. Not many managers go to Parkhead and beat them in their backyard but he did it, so it would be a great appointment for the club. He delivered 55 and he takes no nonsense from players.
“If you’re not pulling your weight, you’ll find yourself out of the team. He’s not afraid to make big calls and if he comes in, it will be a fresh slate for everyone. Some people will get a second chance.
“With any new manager, there will be a buzz. From what I’ve heard, he wants to come back and the club wants him here.
“The fans will also get right behind it. And if he’s in for the Dundee United game, a win could really kick start Rangers’ season.
“Ibrox would literally be bouncing. You’ll probably see players who haven’t done well in recent months get a real lift, just because you’re playing for Steven Gerrard.”
