Steven Gerrard has reportedly snubbed an approach from Derby to discuss replacing Frank Lampard should his old Premier League rival move to Chelsea.
The Rangers boss has been identified as a top target by Rams chiefs, according to the Times, should Lampard, as expected, make a stunning move back to Stamford Bridge.
However the report states that Gerrard has rejected the approach from Pride Park.
Ironically the two sides are set to meet in a pre-season friendly at Ibrox next month.
And Gerrard will very much be at the helm for Rangers as he steps up preparations for the new season as he looks to stop Celtic hitting 9 in a row.
Gerrard has always said he plans to stick with Rangers for the duration of his contract which expires in 2022.
Speaking last year he said: “I can assure everyone that we’ll give every bit of time and effort we’ve got to continue moving the club forward on the pitch and we’ll continue trying to attract the best players possible to help bring success back to this incredible club.
“I feel I’m in such a blessed position to be here as manager. I hope I stay here for a very long time and we share some really good times together.”
He is well ahead with his preparations for the new campaign, having made four signings so far and closing in on Liverpool winger Sheyi Ojo on loan as a fifth.
Already signed are Jordan Jones, Jake Hastie, Greg Stewart and Steven Davis.
The Ibrox club, who will discover who they face in Europa League qualifying later today, are also working on deals for Charlton's Joe Aribo and Oldham defender George Edmundson.
