Quality of signings hold key for Gerrard

Since their return to the top flight two years ago, the burden of expectancy from their supporters has proved too much for managers and players alike at Rangers.

The greatest degree of intrigue in the new Scottish Premiership season will surround whether Steven Gerrard can stand tall where Mark Warburton, Pedro Caixinha and Graeme Murty all buckled under the pressure.

Gerrard could hardly have chosen a more demanding or unforgiving environment for his first managerial gig. The key to his success or otherwise will largely depend on whether his player recruitment this summer has been more effective than that of his immedi- ate predecessors in the role.

Too many of the signings in the past two seasons have lacked the ability and, just as crucially, the mentality to thrive amid the intensity of a club whose fans are aching for a return to the competitive credibility and regular trophy-collecting they once took for granted.

Gerrard has initially prioritised the defensive area of his side with the return of goalkeeper Allan Mcgregor, pictured, and capture of centre-half Connor Goldson appearing shrewd business. If a balance can be struck between a solid base at the back and reliable creativity in the attacking third of the pitch, Gerrard will be in with a fighting chance of success.