Rangers and Steven Gerrard have made a front page splash in Germany, gracing the front cover of the respected football magazine, 11 Freunde.
In addition to the cover story, the inside reveals the full article and accompanying photos over eight pages.
Under the headline, ‘Fliegen Lernen’, (learning to fly) the narrative is that of Rangers rejuvenation under Gerrard, the fledgling manager who is on an upward curve in his own development.
This is set against some recent historical context and the writer is present at the stadium on the day of the last Old Firm game on 2nd January, also the 50th anniversary of the Ibrox disaster, which is referenced.
A handful of fans, gathered around the stadium straining for a look inside onto the pitch are also featured in this upbeat positive piece.
The effect of brand Gerrard is here on full display, it is tangible and it sells. This time to an international, German audience.
As Rangers reach success and sustain it, that exposure for the club and the subsequent gains will only grow further and peak with Gerrard’s eventual exit as manager, hopefully to Liverpool after a lasting legacy is secured in terms of domestic silverware and strides made in Europe.
A title win this season makes Gerrard and his team heroes forever, but you get the impression that the gaffer is just getting started.
11FREUNDE #231 – ab morgen am Kiosk!
Unter anderem mit Gerrard bei den Rangers, Pellegrino Matarazzo im Interview, leidenden Amateur-Ultras in der Corona-Pandemie, Marcus Rashford im Kampf gegen die Armut und unbesungenen Helden der Fußballgeschichte. pic.twitter.com/WZVmna2znq— 11FREUNDE_de (@11Freunde_de) January 20, 2021