Gary McAllister has revealed that Steven Gerrard has no regrets over leaving Rangers for his attempt at Premier League management. The former Rangers assistant spoke about Gerrard's mindset regarding his departure from Ibrox after leading the club to the 55th league title in 2021.
Gerrard steered Rangers back to the summit of Scottish football before leaving for Aston Villa later that year. Since then, the Light Blues have failed to reclaim the Premiership trophy, with Celtic resuming their dominance.
Gerrard's Coaching Journey
Things did not work out for Gerrard at Villa Park, where he was sacked after less than a year. He then moved to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, leaving in January 2025 amid a relegation battle. Before Danny Rohl was appointed as Rangers manager in October last year, Gerrard held talks with club owners but walked away from a potential return.
Speaking to the Daily Express, McAllister said: "Knowing Steven, he’s not somebody who looks back and thinks, 'Would’ve, should’ve, could’ve,' and all that. There was an opportunity to go to the Premier League in England. Players make that jump. Steven felt he could go to Villa and progress his coaching career, and I don’t think he has any regrets."
McAllister added: "I think the Rangers fans know exactly how Steven feels about the club. He loved the club. He loved the fact that Dave King gave him the opportunity in his first job to manage one of the biggest clubs in the world. The club is very close to his heart, there’s no doubt about that."
Defending the Covid Title
McAllister also dismissed suggestions that Rangers' 2021 title win was diminished because matches were played behind closed doors during the pandemic. "Some people say it might have been an advantage that there were no fans and there was no pressure from fans being in the stadiums, because it was during Covid and stuff," he said.
"But nothing can take away from the fact that we won the title. Celtic had such a stronghold on it, and we broke their run. It provided us with great, unforgettable memories."
Backing for McInnes
McAllister also expressed support for current Rangers manager Derek McInnes, saying he had always expected him to take the role. "I’ve always felt that he was going to be Rangers manager at some point. It’s come, and I think it’s come at the right time as well," he said.
"He’ll bring that knowledge of the club to the fore and explain to the players what it really means to pull on that jersey."
