Steven Gerrard makes undercover Ibrox return for Celtic League Cup tie as former boss joins celebrations with ex players
The former Rangers boss kept a low profile during Sunday’s Old Firm derby but emerged after the final whistle to celebrate with some familiar faces
Steven Gerrard made a low-key return to Ibrox on Sunday as Rangers produced a statement victory over Celtic — and the former manager was quick to join the celebrations once the final whistle had gone.
Derek McInnes’ side booked their place in the Premier Sports Cup semi-finals in emphatic fashion, sweeping aside their bitter rivals 3-0 in Govan. Dan Neil struck twice, with Kevin Kelsy also finding the net as the hosts delivered one of their most convincing derby performances in recent memory.
The result extended McInnes’ perfect run to five consecutive victories and arguably represented the biggest result of his tenure so far. After a difficult opening spell, the Rangers boss is beginning to see signs that his team are finding their rhythm.
Gerrard was among those soaking up the occasion, although he managed to stay largely out of the spotlight during the match. The former Gers boss was not featured on Premier Sports’ broadcast and kept a dark blue baseball cap on as he watched from the stands, seemingly happy to avoid too much attention.
His low-profile approach ended after the match, however, when he appeared on social media alongside some familiar faces from his time at Ibrox.
Gerrard shared a photograph with former Rangers favourite Scott Arfield, who was also in attendance to witness the derby triumph. He later caught up with Andy Halliday, posting a selfie with the ex-Gers midfielder to his Instagram story.
The picture came with an interesting musical backdrop, as Gerrard added Roy Orbison’s ‘Penny Arcade’ to the post.
The song has become particularly familiar around Ibrox in recent days after McInnes was filmed joining in with the celebrations during Rangers’ Premiership win over St Mirren, enthusiastically fist-bumping along as supporters sang the terrace favourite.
Whether Gerrard’s choice of soundtrack was intended as a nod towards McInnes remains open to interpretation. What is beyond doubt, though, is that Rangers supporters were delighted to see their former boss back at Ibrox — and celebrating another memorable victory over Celtic.
One supporter wrote: “The Gaffer will be back at some point,” while a second commented: “Bet he loved that win!” A third person joked: “Offer him the head of recruitment job”, following confirmation of Dan Purdy’s resignation as Technical Director earlier this week.
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