Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers expects a “tougher” title defence for his champions next season regardless of Steven Gerrard’s appointment at Rangers.
Brendan Rodgers has played down the impact of Steven Gerrard at Rangers, claiming he’s already been preparing for a “tougher” title defence next term, regardless of who is at the helm of their bitter rivals, via Sky Sports News.
The Hoops secured the Scottish Premiership title for the seventh successive year, while Rangers could only secure a third place finish under the tutelage of caretaker coach Jimmy Nicholl.
However, there is a positive feeling around the Ibrox stadium, with Gers supporters once again believing they can muster a real challenge next term.
The catalyst for this new-found optimism is undoubtedly the bold appointment of Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, who has vowed to shake things up at the club, starting with the current transfer window – having already snapped up ex-Burnley man Scott Arfield.
Rodger’s for one isn’t quite buying into the idea that Gerrard will revolutionise Rangers though, and claimed the level of competition would have elevated without him, via quotes from Sky Sports News (speaking at Lennoxtown).
“I would expect whoever was in charge at Rangers for it to be tougher,” Rodgers said.
“That’s how football works, each year it gets tougher and more difficult and that will be no different, whoever was taking charge, whether it was Steven or anyone else.”
While it’s hardly a slap in the face from Rodgers, Gers fans and likely Steven Gerrard himself will not appreciate the Celtic boss, in any way, demeaning what they’re aiming to create at Rangers.
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