Rumor Mongering: Gerrard Wants Flanagan For Rangers

Stevie...does know that there are other, non-Liverpool players, right?

There have been no shortage of Liverpool-affiliated players linked to a move to Rangers since Steven Gerrard has been appointed manager. Academy product Ovie Ejaria has already packed his bags for a loan with the Scottish club, and now recently released Jon Flanagan could be joining the ranks under the former Liverpool skipper.

Flanagan joined Championship side Bolton on loan, making nine appearances, after the arrest and conviction of domestic assault on his girlfriend. Despite one year remaining on his contract, Liverpool released the 25-year-old last week.

Now, Gerrard and Rangers could possibly capitalize, though obviously, not without controversy. The domestic assault conviction carries with it a great deal of baggage and justified public scrutiny. And some fans, understandably, would not want Flanagan associated with their club, regardless of the circumstances.

However, if Gerrard is trying to build a squad on limited resources, Flanagan has—or at least had, before his injuries—the talent to competently play fullback in the Premier League. Having played along side Flanagan during the title chase in 2013/14, Gerrard would know better than most what the former Liverpool player could provide on the pitch.

It could be an opportunity for Flanagan to rebuild his career at Rangers, though not without risks for their newly appointed manager. With a spotty injury history, and an even spottier personal history, Gerrard should ask himself if the “free” transfer is really worth the risk.

Source: liverpooloffside.sbnation.com