Gerrard has the characteristics to be a top manager
Rangers director of football Mark Allen is convinced Steven Gerrard has all the characteristics to be a top manager.
Allen made the recommendation to the Rangers board before Gerrard was appointed on a four-year deal on Friday.
The 37-year-old will take over on June 1 having only coached Liverpool Under-18s but the former England midfielder is confident he has the ability to overcome his inexperience in the role.
And Allen did not hesitate when he realised he had the chance to bring in the high-profile candidate.
''For a very long time I have always thought it was a question of 'when' with Steven in management,'' Allen said.
I have known Steven over quite a number of years now and it was very clear for me that the characteristics you are looking for when you try to appoint someone in your managerial position, he more than carries those characteristics of being a winner, being a leader, and being a character who can cope with adversity.
I think those are fundamental requirements as a manager. So I always knew that Steven would be a manager. It was a question of when.
And when I thought we had an opportunity to go and secure him, it was one of those moments when you just go, because I think Steven is going to be a fantastic manager for Glasgow Rangers.'