ALEX INGLETHORPE reckons Steven Gerrard is destined for success as a manager as he starts the next stage of his career at Rangers.
The Liverpool legend stepped down from his role as Reds Under-18s boss to pen a four-year deal with the Light Blues.
Gerrard has been putting his Gers squad through their paces at a training camp in Spain this week as he prepares for his first campaign in the dugout.
He has been joined by former Kop staff Gary McAllister, Michael Beale, Tom Culshaw and Jordan Milsom.
Questions have been raised over the 38-year-old’s lack of experience as a first team boss following his appointment at Ibrox.
But Liverpool Academy director Inglethorpe has no doubt the former Liverpool and England captain will thrive on the other side of the white line this term.
"Having the opportunity to work with Steven left it's mark, not just on the players but on the staff as well," he said.
"You see the qualities that he brings. I think we've been really lucky to have had Steven here.
"At best, I knew we would get two or possibly three years. We always knew that he would be wanted and having worked with him I can understand why. He's a natural leader.
"He's incredibly dedicated towards achieving what he wants. He's not a man who looks to cut any corners.
"He's not someone who wants to be fast-tracked. He was prepared to come into the Academy and commit in the same way as every other coach.
"I have no doubt that he's on the pathway to becoming a top manager. All he needs is time and a bit of patience from everybody.
"He's in the infancy of his journey but I'm convinced that he will succeed and achieve everything as a manager that he did as a player."
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