'HE'LL DEAL WITH IT'

Rangers boss Gerrard can shatter Celtic’s 10 in a Row dream, says ex-England boss Eriksson

SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON has backed Steven Gerrard to shatter Celtic’s dreams of winning ten in a row.

The Swede knows his former England captain will be under serious pressure next season after failing to win a trophy in his first two years at Rangers.

But he is adamant Gerrard can handle the heat as he looks to finally end the Ibrox club’s long wait for silverware.

Eriksson told SunSport: “I have been following the results of Rangers, of course I have.

“I had Steven as a player and I have so much respect for him as a man.

“I want him to do well and I believe that he will be a successful manager for Rangers.

“I always follow my ex-players who are now coaches and Steven is no different.

“I know he will be under pressure next season, but that won’t worry him. Steven will handle all the pressure that comes his way. He has done that throughout his entire career.

“Mentally, he is strong. He has a very good character and he is an extremely hard-working man.

“I am sure whatever challenge comes his way next season in Scotland, he will deal with it.

“He will be successful as a manager, I have no doubt about that.”

Eriksson, now 72, coached England between 2001-2006.

Gerrard made most of his 114 international appearances under the Swede, with the pair forging a strong bond.

Eriksson always believed Gerrard would turn to coaching when his playing days ended.

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And he’s in no doubt he will bring success to Ibrox.

Eriksson said: “Steven was a regular for me during my time in England and I knew he’d become a manager.

“Both he and Frank Lampard I felt sure would go into coaching. The same with David Beckham.

“I was not surprised to see Steven become the Rangers manager. He is a leader. Even during my time he was captain of England for some games.

“You do not captain England unless you are a leader, unless you have the right attributes and Steven had it all.”

Eriksson embarked on his own managerial career three years before Gerrard was born.

Starting with Degerfors in Sweden, Eriksson’s last post was in charge of the Philippines.

In a coaching career spanning 40 years, he rates Gerrard among the best players he has ever worked with.

Eriksson added: “I want to wish him a very happy birthday, for sure.

“Steven was part of a very good England team. He was an extremely important player for me.

“During my time he was an important player, but even after my time in England he continued to be a very important player.

“Also, you almost can’t put into words what he achieved for Liverpool.

“He was a great player, the complete player.

“Whatever position you put Steven in, you knew he would always perform for you.

“He was one of many important players during my time.”