Steven Gerrard reveals the main thing he has learnt from Jurgen Klopp

Gerrard Klopp TEAMtalk

Steven Gerrard has said he was like a “sponge” learning from Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool and has revealed the main thing he has picked up from the German coach.

After just 12 months as head coach of Liverpool’s U18s Gerrard was offered the opportunity at Rangers – a chance he has admitted maybe came along too soon in his career. But, as he points out, it was too big a club to refuse and things have worked out well in his first season with the men from Ibrox third in the league and just two points behind Rangers.

Gerrard, 38, though admits that he picked up endless lessons from Klopp last season and says the most valuable thing he has taken from the former Dortmund boss was to make sure to have time away from football.

Gerrard told The Guardian: “I was like a sponge, watching and learning. I watch him on TV and see how he handles situations. I could never be Jürgen with his charisma and energy. But if I can take a few things from him it will be such a help. And if I text, call or see him, Jurgen’s always got time for me.”

Asked what was the most valuable lesson he picked up from from Klopp, Gerrard added: “Jurgen’s really good at switching off. When the game is on he’s very emotional but once it’s over he can park the emotion. That’s why he’s so good at handling the pressure. After cup finals and a big setback he’ll be the one to start the party.

“Tomorrow is a different day and that’s a big lesson I have to learn. I have to live my life outside football while still being a manager. It is difficult but I’m trying.”

Gerrard, who has great admiration for Jose Mourinho at Man Utd, has also revealed the importance of his 12 months working with Liverpool’s youngsters at Kirkby.

“I learned a lot preparing and delivering sessions, speaking to players one-to-one, using different formations,” added Gerrard.

“It gave me a year’s driving lessons. I wasn’t expecting the Rangers offer. Do I think it came a bit early? Probably. But when it’s a club as big as Rangers you only get one opportunity to manage them. So I had to reflect. Where am I strong? Who do I need to help me in areas where I lack experience? The staff Rangers put around me have been absolutely brilliant.”