Winning Nick Powell race would be biggest signal of Rangers closing Old Firm gap

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There was once a time when Wigan Athletic midfielder Nick Powell was considered a potential candidate to replace Steven Gerrard long-term for England. A midfielder graced with boundless energy, wonderful technique and a knack for scoring goals, the attributes were all there.

Manchester United felt the same and snapped him up from Crewe Alexandra in 2012. Unfortunately, it never quite happened for Powell at Old Trafford. Injury troubles saw him struggle to make an impact and he left for Wigan in 2016.

His injuries changed his style of play and, nowadays, he operates more as a striker or support striker than as the ‘Gerrard-like’ midfielder many thought he would.

Gerrard is now keen on signing the player. The Rangers boss, according to the Scottish Sun, is ready to match any offer Celtic make for the bullish six-foot tall attacker. He is out of contract at the end of the season and both clubs are prepared to offer him the same pre-contract arrangement.

If the former wonderkid decides on Ibrox over Parkhead, it would be the biggest signal yet that Rangers are closing the gap both on and off the pitch to their Old Fork rivals.

Rangers’ recent signings of Jermain Defoe and Steve Davis already suggested this. The recent Old Firm derby win did the same. Beating Celtic to Powell would suggest Rangers are in for an exciting future under Gerrard’s leadership.