The Sunday Post (Inverness)

Munro fears all roads will lead to Anfield once again

- By Lindsay Herron SPORT@SUNDAYPOST.COM

Steven Gerrard’s champions-in-waiting are set to become legends, and could dominate Scottish football for the next decade.

That’s the verdict of former Ibrox star Stuart Munro, who reckons the current Light Blues boss could copy Graeme Souness, who did exactly the same thing when he smashed a nine-year title hoodoo in 1987.

But Munro’s big fear is that, like Souness, Gerrard will answer the call to his beloved Anfield.

Munro, who has lived in Australia for the last 20 years, said: “I think Gerrard could create a dynasty in the same way that Souness did. But he will need the financial muscle to do so.

“The big difference between Rangers and Celtic in recent years was Champions League money, and if Rangers can get it for the next couple of years and become even stronger, then Gerrard could do something very special.

“Celtic are still a wealthy club, though. Back in my day, they had some financial issues and that undoubtedl­y helped us.

“So I think it will still be a two-horse race. But Gerrard can get his nose ahead by winning this title and building again.

“The big problem down the line is how long will Rangers be able to keep him if he goes on a run like that?

“There are obvious parallels with Souness. Both exceptiona­l players, both young coaches and both have a deep love for Liverpool.

“So, two or three years down the track, if Liverpool come calling, I don’t think there’s any doubt he would go. So that’s the worry.

“The pressure was huge on Celtic this season because of the possibilit­y of 10. But they haven’t handled it – and Rangers have blown them away.

“Steven Gerrard is clearly showing he has grown into being a very good manager and coach, and that’s justified the faith shown in him.

“He took a couple of years to settle into the job, but it’s paying dividends now.

“Like Souness, he has such high standards because he played at the very highest level, and that’s clearly rubbing off on the players.

“He has made Rangers better every year, and that’s no mean feat because recruitmen­t isn’t easy for either half of the Old Firm these days.”

Rangers have a huge lead over Celtic with only 13 games to go, and Munro is certain the wait for title glory is over.

He said: “There’s such a big gap, it would be ridiculous if they threw it away. They just need to stay consistent.

“We were all completely aware of what it would mean to the supporters if we could win the league back in 1987 – and, of course, what it would mean to us.

“The current Rangers team will be feeling the same way because it’s 10 years since the flag was flying at Ibrox.

“But there is a big difference. Of course, all the players and staff will be wanting to win it for themselves – but it’s also about stopping Celtic getting 10.”

 ??  ?? Stuart Munro (front left) with the 1987 title team
Stuart Munro (front left) with the 1987 title team

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