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Steven Gerrard once made Rangers target Ben Woodburn his captain

Rangers are reportedly hoping to bring in Ben Woodburn from Liverpool on a season-long loan deal. that the 19-year-old could be on his way to Ibrox after his loan spell at Sheffield United was cut short.

The Welsh international is, of course, well known to Rangers boss Steven Gerrard.

The Rangers manager worked with the Welshman during his time as Liverpool’s under-19 manager, especially in the UEFA Youth League.


“I’d love to have Ben Woodburn but he’s part of the first team.

“But he does need to play football matches and if at the right time he’s available we’ll use him and we’ll enjoy him, because he’s a fantastic footballer.”


Speaking at the start of the 2017-18 campaign, the Liverpool legend explained how he would have loved to have Woodburn in his plans, but the attacker was then with the Liverpool first-team under Jurgen Klopp.

BIRKENHEAD, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 13: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Ben Woodburn of Liverpool and Luis Garcia Martinez of Sevilla in action during the UEFA Champions League group E match between Liverpool FC and Sevilla FC at Prenton Park on September 13, 2017 in Birkenhead, United Kingdom. (Photo by Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

In the end, Woodburn did drop down to play in the European competition and Gerrard handed him the captaincy. So clearly, there is already a level of appreciation that the Rangers boss has for Woodburn.


“I am pleased with Ben because his attitude and mentality when he comes down to train at the Academy is 10 out of 10. That gives everyone a lift.

“His mates are so happy to have him around and he is smiling and playing around with them so it is a great mix…

“I haven’t just given Ben the captaincy because he is Ben Woodburn, he has got it on merit and he will lead by example in his performances.”


Liverpool loans have been polarising this season. Ryan Kent has been a success whilst Ovie Ejaria cut his deal short having struggled to settle into Scottish football’s robust nature.

Woodburn, however, is clearly highly thought of by Gerrard and could be a hit for Rangers.