“I don’t welcome it” – Gerrard distanced himself from Liverpool, never mind Newcastle!

Steven Gerrard has been strongly tipped to be the next Newcastle manager and that in itself is an indication that Rangers are doing well. 

Quite simply, we would rather have it this way than the other way round with absolutely no interest in the man who landed the 55th league title at Ibrox.

However, don’t panic.

Yes, our man has already been linked with a move to Tyneside alongside other names such as Frank Lampard and Antonio Conte, but speculation and bookies odds is always going to happen. It’s just part of the ever present noise that surrounds football.

If ever such context was needed, let me cast your mind back a few months to an interview conducted with the Rangers manager by ESPN.

In July on the eve of the season, they reflected on the title success, Champions League aspirations (still a sore point) and future plans for the Huyton-born icon.

As part of the conversation, it naturally turned to Liverpool and the potential of one day taking the big job at his beloved Anfield.

Now, everyone who knows anything about football knows clearly that it is the ultimate job for Gerrard, the one he wants one day.

However, that time is not now and Gerrard believes he has a job to see out at Rangers, in fact he was sharp and to the point on the speculation of a return to Merseyside to replace Jurgen Klopp:

“I can’t control any media speculation about my position,” he stated.

“I don’t welcome it, I don’t add to it. All I do is focus on the job I have here and I’m very flattered and grateful for the position.”

“I’m very happy here, I’ve said it on numerous occasions, it’s a huge club, I’m settled, I’m happy and I can continue to develop and keep trying to push this team forward.”

Now if that’s what he has to say about Liverpool, what chance have Newcastle?

Yes, nothing is guaranteed in football and money talks, especially now that the Toon Army are led by the wealthiest owners in football, anywhere in the world.

The fact remains is that Liverpool is the job that Gerrard wants and he is committed to seeing out his Rangers contract, which is due to expire at the end of next season.

Time will tell but title retention and a Champions League tilt is by far more likely than a job on the Tyne.

@graeme818