Gerrard hails character

STEVEN GERRARD hailed the quality and character of his Rangers squad as the champions eased to victory over Livingston.

A first half penalty from James Tavernier and efforts from Ryan Kent and Ianis Hagi after the break were enough to clinch a 3-0 win at the Tony Macaroni Arena.

Rangers are now within 90 minutes of an unbeaten Premiership campaign as they prepare to be crowned as champions following the visit of Aberdeen this weekend.

Gerrard’s squad were decimated by injury for the Lions clash but showed their resolve and class to emerge victorious as Joe Aribo filled in at left-back and produced an accomplished performance.

Gerrard said: “We had to earn the right first and foremost to make it straightforward.

“Obviously our quality has come through at the end.

“I thought goal number two and three were outstanding in terms of team goals.

“The build-up play to win the penalty was outstanding as well, so our quality was there for everyone to see.

“This is a place where first you’ve got to show steel and earn the right. We did that and when our moment has come, we were clinical.

“One thing we’ve got in this group is character and good people. They are prepared to do whatever it takes to win.

“I asked Ianis Hagi to play half like himself and half like Scott Arfield against Livingston. Scott watched the game and I’m sure he was really proud.

“This is a squad we have built over three years and now we just need to give it some help and energy in the next window.”