Rangers boss Steven Gerrard says his focus remains on leading Rangers into the new Scottish Premiership season, despite growing speculation surrounding his future at Ibrox.
Gerrard is said to be Derby County’s number one target, if as expected, they lose manager Frank Lampard to Chelsea.
Nottingham Forest’s arch-rivals are desperate to keep Lampard and have offered him a bumper new contract in a desperate bid to keep him, but the lure of his former club appears to be too strong to resist for the 41-year-old Stamford Bridge legend.
But Gerrard, who like Lampard largely impressed during his first season in management, says his focus remains on Rangers, and that his mind remains solely on the task of challenging Celtic, and not moving to the East Midlands.
“Yes, I’m aware of it,” said Gerrard when quizzed by Sky Sports about the Rams' interest while out on the club’s pre-season trip to Portugal, “but there’s nothing to say on it.
“I’m very happy to be the Rangers manager. My focus is on the up and coming season.”
Reports on Monday morning suggested Rams owner Mel Morris would try and tempt Gerrard away from Glasgow with the promise of an £8m bonus should he go one better than Lampard and lead Derby into the Premier League, with an annual salary of £2.5m mooted.
Despite that suggested offer, the Rams are unable to move for a new boss until Chelsea make a formal approach for Lampard, though that’s widely expected within the next 48 hours.
Gerrard, though, is keen to reiterate his commitment to the Gers.
“I think it’s very similar to when there’s noise around players. I ask the players to stay focused on the job and that’s what I’ll continue to do,” continued the 39-year-old ex-Liverpool captain.
“I came in very focused in season one and nothing has changed in my mind.
“I’m delighted to be the Rangers manager. I’m managing one of the biggest football clubs you can manage.
“Nothing has changed.”
