Manager sees a bright future after deals for Wright and Patterson
STEVEN GERRARD views the deals struck with Scott Wright and Nathan Patterson as important moves to help safeguard the future strength of Rangers.
On Monday, the Ibrox side announced a pre-contract agreement that will see Wright move from Aberdeen in the summer and confirmed Patterson had signed a two-year extension to keep him at the club until 2024.
Gerrard regards securing promising Scottish talent as a key component of plans for beyond this season — even while his main focus is firmly on closing out the current Premiership campaign with title success.
‘A big part of my role is trying to protect the future of the club, trying to improve the group in whatever area we feel needs improved,’ he said.
‘It’s very much a case of staying in the now at the moment in terms of the challenges that are coming thick and fast.
‘But we obviously have to try and be prepared, get ahead of the game and always try protect the future of the club. To get those two boosts on Monday was fantastic. ‘In terms of Scott, he is a really exciting player and we are looking forward to welcoming him in the summer with open arms. We think he is a big talent who still has loads more to come.’ Rangers are also expected to confirm pre-contracts for Bournemouth pair Jack Simpson and Nnamdi Ofoborh in the near future, with agreements in place. Asked about that situation and whether Wright’s move could be accelerated before Monday’s transfer deadline, Gerrard added: ‘In terms of Scott, obviously Aberdeen control that situation. He is their player from now until the end of the season. ‘Where that stands right now is that we expect to see Scott in the summer. ‘In terms of the other situations, watch this space. We are trying to develop others but I don’t want to mention any names as of yet.’