Steven Gerrard Hints Returning At Rangers: Should Derek McInnes Be Worried?

Steven Gerrard Hints Returning At Rangers: Should Derek McInnes Be Worried? Steven Gerrard has refused to rule out managing Rangers again, although he insists that Derek McInnes deserves complete respect while occupying the Ibrox dugout. The former Liverpool captain remains hugely popular among Rangers supporters after delivering the club’s historic 55th Scottish league title in 2021. However, his latest comments suggest that he has little interest in creating unnecessary pressure around McInnes, particularly while the current manager continues his work. Speaking on Open Goal, relayed by the Daily Record , Gerrard explained why he has avoided attending matches at Ibrox in recent times. He believes returning publicly while another manager holds the position could create unwanted speculation about the club’s managerial situation. “I’ve been reluctant to come up for a certain amount of time and sit in the box with a suit on, because I don’t want to disrespect any manager that’s in position,” Gerrard explained. His comments are of particular significance given what happened with Michael Beale in 2022. Why Steven Gerrard continues to respect Rangers and McInnes Beale previously served as Gerrard’s assistant before replacing Giovanni van Bronckhorst in November 2022. His visits to Ibrox while the Dutchman faced mounting pressure attracted criticism from sections of the Rangers support. Gerrard clearly doesn’t want to repeat that situation. He specifically praised McInnes, describing his former Aberdeen side as one of the toughest opponents his Rangers coaching staff encountered. “I’ve got nothing but respect for Derek McInnes. He was one of the toughest challenges for us as a group of staff when he was at Aberdeen. I hope he does well,” Gerrard added. The 55-year-old title-winning manager recently attended Rangers’ 3-0 victory against Celtic in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final. Former teammates Andy Halliday and Scott Arfield helped arrange his visit, allowing him to enjoy the Old Firm atmosphere without creating unnecessary attention. Asked about another managerial opportunity, Gerrard admitted that he currently enjoys his television commitments with TNT Sports. He has signed a new broadcasting agreement and appreciates spending time with his family in Liverpool. He has received several approaches from clubs, although none have convinced him to return to the dugout. Should Rangers welcome Gerrard’s open-door stance or protect McInnes? LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 09: Ex-Professional Liverpool footballer Steven Gerrard talks to press before the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1 match between Liverpool FC and Atletico de Madrid at Anfield on September 09, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) Rangers should welcome Gerrard’s comments, but McInnes must remain the priority while the title race continues. Gerrard’s achievements are undeniable, particularly his unbeaten Premiership campaign in 2020-21. Nevertheless, constantly discussing his potential return would create unnecessary distractions for the current manager. McInnes has earned the opportunity to establish his own identity at Ibrox. His results, recruitment decisions and ability to deliver silverware should determine his future, rather than comparisons with a former manager. Gerrard’s ‘who knows?’ response keeps fans interested, but his actions deserve greater attention than speculation. He has deliberately avoided overshadowing McInnes, and Rangers should respect that decision rather than turn his affection for the club into another managerial debate.