Verdict: Is Steven Gerrard’s return right for Rangers? | OneFootball

We are going to discuss what we think of Steven Gerrard potentially coming back to Rangers. One or two of our number at Ibrox Noise do not support him, and we will make that clear. Not everyone is on board. As a collective, it is a yes, but there are misgivings among us. And we understand those misgivings. Looking back into the past does not always work. Sometimes it does. Look at Walter in 2007. His return was sensational, but he was one in a billion.

Walter was unique – Gerrard is not

Walter Smith knew exactly how to manage Rangers, how to deal with the SPL, and how to get the best out of his players. He had the aura, the command and the deep understanding of the club that made him untouchable. That is the one thing Steven Gerrard absolutely does have. He has the Walter aura. The presence, the charisma and the general vibe that befits the position. He carries that weight effortlessly.

However, it is the only thing he truly has. His management is not great, his tactics are almost non-existent and he does not appear to have a clear plan. His record since leaving Ibrox has been poor. Even with Michael Beale alongside him at Aston Villa, they were a disaster together. At Al Ettifaq, things went no better. Beale’s return did not save him there either. So, that old argument from some Rangers fans – that Beale was the brains behind 55 – does not really hold up.

Gerrard’s authority versus his football flaws

So what do we believe about a Steven Gerrard Rangers return? Do we want him? We will not say no. We are always looking for a Walter. That is what we need at Rangers – a patriarchal figure with authority and control. Gerrard does have that. He just does not have the football side fully nailed down. That is where his team would come in.

During 55, Beale handled the tactics and coaching. Gerrard took the final decisions and inspired belief. It worked because it was balanced. But if he returns now, who in his new proposed management team offers that tactical brain? Defoe, McCann, Dodds, McGregor and McAllister are fine men, but not outstanding coaches. Gerrard would need one serious figure beside him to shape the football side.

A tentative yes, but with doubts

In the end, Gerrard still carries the authority and aura Rangers need. The Steven Gerrard Rangers return might bring back presence and respect. But it is not the full package. He would need guidance, structure and proper coaching support. So yes, we tentatively back it. We are not certain it will work, but unlike Russell Martin, we know it might. The Steven Gerrard Rangers return could yet bring back that missing power – if, and only if, he has the right people around him.