Lennon admits he was ‘surprised’ Gerrard took Rangers job

Hibernian manager Neil Lennon has admitted his surprise at Steven Gerrard’s decision to take over as Ranger manager.

The former Celtic manager watched as his side held Ranger to a 0-0 draw at Easter Road last night, and admitted he was surprised that Gerrard took the job in the opposition dug-out.

Lennon said he thought Gerrard’s arrival at Ibrox in the summer was a ‘gamble’ for the former Liverpool captain, but admits he has been impressed by the 38-year-old’s impact in his first senior managerial position.

“I was surprised he took the job because it was a very difficult first job. He’s a big name himself and it was a gamble but now he’s in there, it looks like he’s been there for a long, long time.” Lennon told a pre-match press conference.

Rangers draw at Hibs saw them slip from top spot to second, one point behind Brendan Rodger’s Celtic side having played a game more.

They travel to St Johnstone on Sunday before a second meeting in quick succession with Hibernian, at Ibrox on Boxing Day.