Liverpool legend John Barnes has urged Steven Gerrard to reject the Rangers job.

Gerrard said on Tuesday that he had held "positive talks" over the vacant managerial position at Ibrox following the sacking of Graeme Murty.

But ex-Celtic boss Barnes believes that the former Liverpool captain will be set up to fail if he takes the job.

"Forget about reputation as a player," Barnes told Sky Sports. "What many have to understand is, as I mention, Pep Guardiola or Jurgen Klopp or any other great managers going to Rangers at this moment in time, possibly would not be able to turn it around straight away.

"So it's not because Steven is inexperienced, it's not because he's not managed anyone. If he doesn't challenge Celtic straight away it's got nothing to do with his ability."

Barnes, who managed less than a year as Celtic boss before being sacked in 2000, added: "So I would urge Rangers fans to give him that opportunity and have faith in him knowing that it may not happen overnight."