By support

6th Jun, 2018 | 9:45am

'Things are changing' - Rangers Academy coach opens up on Gerrard appointment

Rangers youth coach Kevin Thomson thinks Steven Gerrard will “relish” the challenge he faces at Ibrox as manager – and admits it is “great to see” the Liverpool icon given the chance to take charge of the Gers.

The Liverpool icon took the reins last week – with Joey Barton and Frank Lampard also taking their first steps in management – and Thomson thinks “things are changing” in football as more ex-players are given opportunities in management.

Gerrard’s arrival at Ibrox has generated a huge buzz from Gers fans – and Thomson believes it is “different class” to have a world-renowned star at the Glasgow giants.

“I think he will relish the challenge that he is going to face being the number one,” Thomson said, as quoted by the Evening Times.

“It’s a big first job for him, but that’s great for me to see as a young coach. Things are changing, aren’t they? Frank Lampard just got a job, so did Joey Barton, so people are coming out of the game and being given opportunities.

“For a worldwide icon to be up here in the Scottish game is different class. He will be aware that his reputation is not so much on the line, but that he has to win games on a Saturday and the demands that come with a big club.

“The buzz from the fans, around the place, from the players is great and hopefully I will get to work with him as well.”

Football Insider verdict:

Anyone who wants to prove themselves as a manager would relish the chance to take the reins at Ibrox and Gerrard will be no different. The 38-year-old has a real opportunity to set himself up as a boss for his entire career with a strong start at Ibrox. Getting the chance to take his first job at a club where he is expected to win trophies and do well in Europe is a massive challenge but not one that Gerrard has shown any apprehension towards. As a young coach trying to make a name for himself, Thomson will be enthused to see Gerrard take charge and will hopefully give the former Gers midfielder a bit of confidence in just how far he can go in coaching as he builds a growing reputation. The reaction to Gerrard’s arrival has been massive – creating headlines from LA To Tokyo and fans have shown just how much they are buying in by smashing season ticket records already this summer.

In other Rangers news, Rangers agree fee and set to close personal terms on major new signing

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