BRUCE ARENA is confident Steven Gerrard can become a successful boss as he looks to lift his first silverware this term.

The American was Gerrard's final manager as he ended his career in MLS with a stint at LA Galaxy four years ago.

Arena is now in charge of New England Revolution but the 68-year-old will keep an eye on Gerrard's fortunes during his third campaign at Rangers.

He said: "I am very pleased for Steven. He is a legend, he had an incredible career at Liverpool and it was a pleasure to work with him at LA Galaxy.

"There was no question in my mind that his next move would be into management. It is quite a challenge to take on a job at a big club like Rangers and I think he has made the transition beautifully.

"It is not easy for players, especially players of the quality of Steven, to move into management. It is a different job and playing is a lot different to managing.

"It is usually a really difficult switch for players of the stature of Steven Gerrard. What I can see, from a distance, is that he has been able to understand that and get a handle on the responsibilities that are needed to be the manager at a big club.

"There is no question on his passion for the sport. It is phenomenal.

"He has got a great reputation and he is going to do great things in his career as a manager and I wish him the very best."