Novo spoke outside of Ibrox as Steven Gerrard began work as Rangers manager on Friday.
Rangers legend Nacho Novo has told Sky Sports that he believes his old side can compete with bitter Old Firm rivals Celtic for the 2018-19 Scottish Premiership title.
New manager Steven Gerrard officially started his reign as Rangers manager on Friday, after penning a four-year deal at Ibrox to replace Graeme Murty last month.
In what is his first senior step into management, former Liverpool and England captain Gerrard has been accused of being too inexperienced for a club like Rangers but Novo reckons he will cope with that due to the presence of assistant Gary McAllister.
The Spaniard also believes the Gers can challenge for the title this season despite finishing 12 points behind Brendan Rodgers’ treble-winning Celtic in third place.
“I think so,” Novo said, when asked if Rangers can compete for the title. “I have a good feeling about Steven Gerrard coming along. I know he’s not experienced, but he’s got McAllister with him.
“The most difficult thing is that his first job is a huge club like Rangers, the pressure here is big. Gerrard should just go for it, he’s a winner and I’ve got a good feeling that he will attract lots of good players.
“He will make a good team, and will challenge for the league with Celtic. His biggest challenge is to manage the players. The last few managers; some players lost respect. At a club like Rangers, that should not be allowed. I think Gerrard will be good with that.”
Gerrard has already brought in three new players this summer, in the form of midfielder Scott Arfield, goalkeeper Allan McGregor and a permanent deal for Jamie Murphy, though more are expected.
Indeed, the Gers seriously need additions at centre-back while new attackers are also expected to be brought in. It remains to be seen what the size of Gerrard’s budget is, ahead of the summer window.
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