KLOPP SAYS GERRARD IS CLOSING OLD FIRM GAP
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp reckons Steven Gerrard is already whittling away at the Old Firm gap.
Klopp is closely watching his old Kop midfield general as he starts his managerial career at Rangers.
And on early evidence he believes Gerrard is reeling in Celtic.
Klopp was in Glasgow yesterday to support a Match for Cancer, a fund-raising event being driven by Liverpool ace James Milner and former Celtic star Stan Petrov (right).
The Hoops won the first Old Firm clash of the season 1- 0 last Sunday – but Klopp says Stevie G has already made great inroads in just a few weeks in charge.
The German said: “He made a brilliant start at Ibrox – then he lost
against Celtic. Wow, what a surprise!
“Celtic are the top team in the league but it’s not like they were 50 or 60 per cent better than Rangers – like they have been in the last few years.
“Rangers are getting closer and that’s the only way to get them one day. That’s Steven’s job but so far it’s more than good.”
Klopp is in regular contact with Gerrard as three young Reds players are at Ibrox.
Ovie Ejaria and Ryan Kent have joined on loan from Liverpool while Jon Flanagan has signed up in Govan permanently after leaving the club.
But Klopp stressed that unlike other managers new on the scene, Gerrard doesn’t have to ask for advice – he already has the knowledge.
Klopp added: “Rangers were brilliant in Europe – Gerrard is putting a good team together.
“When I started out as a manager I didn’t ask for advice because I didn’t know who to ask.
“Steven doesn’t ask because he doesn’t have to. We are in contact – but not for advice.”
Klopp took charge of Mi lner’s side during yesterday’s charity game at Parkhead, which finished in a 3-3 draw.
Klopp said: “I enjoyed it, it was nice. The boys and the organisation were brilliant – and it’s for important causes.”
Meanwhile, Klopp has backed Liverpool ace Andy Robertson to be a success as new Scotland captain.
He said: “Andy is a fantastic fella. He’s smart and can definitely be a leader for the future. He’s now a Braveheart and will handle the pressure.”