Gerrard: We need to add freshness to our squad

ended

’s 9-year reign in the Scottish Premiership this season, securing their 55th Scottish top-flight title in March. As a result of the Light Blues’ impressive campaign under

Steven Gerrard

, some of their players have been linked with moves away from the Ibrox Stadium. Ahead of his side’s Old Firm clash against Celtic on Sunday, Gerrard admits other clubs are interested in signing his players but says his side will try to improve their squad with fresh blood.

"It never stops here. I think some people on the outside think it is just about the training and game plans and going into the games,"

Gerrard told

Sky Sports

.

"We work endless hours, even when you are at home you are on the phone, watching players, watching teams. You are always constantly trying to get ahead of the game from a recruitment point of view.”

Ryan Kent, Borna Barisic, Glen Kamara and Ianis Hagi have attracted interest from other clubs and might leave the Scottish club in the summer. Rangers are interested in signing Fashion Sakala and Joey Veerman to deepen their squad’s depth.

"To be fair to Ross [Wilson, Rangers' sporting director] and the board we are in regular dialogue - how we can strengthen, how we can move forward. From my point of view, I think that's important. After long, hard seasons, you get to that stage where players and staff themselves, you need to add freshness, it re-energises people, it re-motivates you for the next challenges that are coming.

"At a club like this, I don't think it is a secret to say we will get attention for our own players. From a selfish point of view I don't want any of my good players to go but the reality is if the right number lands then that decision might be taken out of my hands. I might not like it at the time but it's where we are as a club."

He added:

"In terms of the Champions League, what an opportunity. I see that as something that is very much motivating and exciting. But to have a better chance of getting that back for everyone connected to the club then it is important that we keep strengthening as well."

Rangers have a chance to secure a spot in the Champions League for the first time since 2010/11. Gerrard knows the prospect of playing in the Champions League will be attractive for the clubs’ transfer targets.

"This club sells itself, it is Rangers, it is a massive club, a historic club, lots of success. Everyone knows the size of it," he said.

"But if you can offer things like European football and the opportunity to qualify for the Champions League then that is an extra motivation you can have up your sleeve from a manager's point of view, for sure."

After their match against Celtic, the Light Blues will play against

in their next Scottish Premiership game on Wednesday.

Follow

for the

.