Ally McCoist insists Steven Gerrard shouldn't be put under pressure at Rangers - even if he ends up winning nothing this season.
The former Ibrox star has been hugely impressed with the club's progress this term as Gerrard's side sit 19 points clear of Celtic in the Premiership.
A shock Betfred Cup exit is the only blot on Rangers ' copybook thus far and while McCoist accepts reality dictates Gerrard would be in trouble if he somehow misses out on the title, he branded the notion "ridiculous".
But he's adamant Rangers are now "back" and was keen to highlight some of Celtic's nine straight titles were won with their rivals out of contention.
On Gerrard, McCoist told The Scottish Sun : "I've never asked Steven this, but most people would accept his natural progression would be to manage Liverpool one day.
"To achieve that he must be successful at Rangers, that means winning trophies.
"Celtic dominated for a decade and credit to them for that, even though a lot of their titles were won when Rangers were fighting their own problems down the divisions.
"But Rangers are back now.
"The first trophy is always the hardest to win, but when they do, Gerrard will really be off and running.
"Klopp was given time to get it right at Liverpool and it took three seasons to win his first trophy, the Champions League success in 2019.
"Similarly, this is Steven's third season at Rangers and it is crunch time now.
"It's ridiculous to think he'd be under pressure if he does not win anything this season, considering the progress Rangers have made. But I know from experience you must deliver major trophies if you wish to remain Ibrox manager otherwise you're heading for the exit.
"Like Liverpool did with Klopp, Rangers' board has shown faith in Steven after two seasons without a trophy, and the reward is an outstanding season at home and in Europe so far."
