With a new season kick-starting this weekend, the manager is looking ahead to the different tests that the team will face this season, saying: “We have fresh challenges, new targets. We have been preparing the strongest squad possible to prepare for everything on all fronts.
“Everyone is excited for the new season and the new challenges ahead. We’ve got important league games, domestic cups and two massive Champions League qualifiers. What a time to be involved with this club it is very exciting for everyone. We have to embrace the pressure of being champions from last season, but we have to remain humble and keep the hunger that we have had over the last 12 months. The evidence from training shows me the players are ready to go again.”
Looking forward to the opening fixture tomorrow, Gerrard gave a squad update as the Light Blues aim to keep the momentum building from last season as they prepare to face David Martindale’s side. He said: “We have a fully fit squad training today, the only absences are Alfredo Morelos and Ryan Jack. We have a couple of players who we will make a late decision on but we are 99 per-cent fit, available and ready to go.
“Jermain Defoe is a top professional and can offer us so much as a player. He loves the game and he loves the club and supporters. He wants to defend the title at Ibrox and will be a huge support to me and my support staff moving forward. David [Martindale] will have Livingston well-drilled tomorrow. He will be fired up and have his players ready. I have a lot of admiration and respect for David, it is always a tough challenge against Livingston.”