Ross Wilson says Rangers have been tracking Gio van Bronckhorst, even during Steven Gerrard’s reign

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Ross Wilson has suggested to the Rangers website that the club have been keeping tabs on Gio van Bronckhorst – even during Steven Gerrard’s reign.

Rangers announced the arrival of 46-year-old van Bronckhorst on Thursday to the delight of Rangers fans. It is unclear how long he has signed for.

But what is clear, is that van Bronckhorst has now replaced Gerrard. It comes on the same day Gerrard gave his first Villa press conference.

It sees van Bronckhorst return to Rangers 20 years after leaving as a player in 2001. He played 117 times for the Gers, winning two league titles.

Speaking to the club’s website after the appointment, sporting director Wilson said Rangers have been watching van Bronckhorst for some time.

“Gio has been part of a long list of managers we have been tracking for a period of time to ensure we are always ready,” Wilson said.

“When Steven intimated his decision last Wednesday, we immediately got to work on what was then a focused shortlist.”

Wilson on van Bronckhorst: Rangers chief deserves credit

Losing Gerrard was always going to be an inevitability. But for Wilson to have a list of names in place, just in case is certainly impressive.

Not only that, but it would have to be a floating list given availability of certain managers. So, constantly updating that list takes work.

Wilson also deserves plaudits for actually bringing in van Bronckhorst. With all due respect to Gerrard, van Bronckhorst can take Rangers further.

He has more experience, joining Rangers as a manager with 200 games under his belt – and a league title, as well as four other cup wins.

Wilson deserves huge praise for getting van Bronckhorst over the line.