Fashion Sakala has revealed how Steven Gerrard wooed him during their first meeting and convinced him to sign for Rangers.
The Zambia international penned a pre-contract agreement at Ibrox and the starstruck striker told how a Gerrard charm offensive helped seal the deal.
Former Oostende frontman Sakala met Gerrard and couldn’t believe the gushing praise was coming from a world football icon.
The Rangers boss told Sakala - who insists money isn’t his motivation despite admitting the cash on offer will set him up for life - he could go to the very top in Europe having seen other players with less ability make it big.
The sweet talk tactic from Gerrard worked a treat as the 24-year-old snubbed interest from English Premier League clubs and France.
Smartly dressed Sakala was interviewed by an African TV station as he opened up on the talks that convinced him to move to Scotland.
Asked about his conversation with the former Liverpool and England captain, with a beaming smile Sakala replied: “He really wanted me to be part of his squad and he can see something good coming from me.
“The first time when we had the meeting he said very few players have your qualities and that he had seen many players who have made it in European football without my qualities.
“So with my qualities he said he believes I can make it to the top. At that time I felt cold but I didn’t tell him I felt cold like ‘This is coming from Gerrard’.
“These big teams put in a lot of money in but I’m not looking for money. The money I’ll be getting for Rangers… my life will be secure.
“Playing for Rangers is better than playing for some Premier League teams. Playing for Rangers is better than playing for some teams in France.
“This is a very big team, one of the most successful in terms of trophies. They have a rich history and great fanbase.”
