Rodgers 'surprised' by Gerrard's Rangers link

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is shocked to see Steven Gerrard named as the frontrunner for the vacant manager's job at Rangers.

Gerrard, who worked under Rodgers during his three-year spell at Anfield, has been touted as a shock contender to take charge at Ibrox next season, replacing interim boss Graeme Murty.

The former England captain has been in charge of Liverpool's Under-19 side this season after moving into coaching following his retirement from playing in 2016.

Rodgers acknowledges the 37-year-old has always had a desire to become a manager, but he was not expecting to potentially come up against him in future Old Firm clashes.

"I was a little bit surprised when I saw it," Rodgers told a news conference ahead of Sunday's clash with Rangers, where Celtic could clinch the Scottish Premier League title.

"If the speculation is right then maybe Stevie feels it is the right club.

"He's always wanted to be a manager. I know from my time working closely with him at Liverpool that it was something he always wanted to do.

"He's lived with expectation all his life at Liverpool and as the captain of England."