TNS boss Scott Ruscoe has admitted he is looking forward to the chance of catching up with new Rangers boss Steven Gerrard after their friendly tonight.

Ruscoe is a lifelong Liverpool fan and was in the TNS starting XI when the former Reds midfielder scored a hat-trick in the first qualifying round of the Champions League in 2005, just weeks after he had lifted the trophy against AC Milan.

Gerrard has taken on the challenge of restoring Rangers to former glories and beat his former Reds boss Brendan Rodgers to the Scottish Premiership, but first will have to try to qualify for the Europa League first.

Ruscoe, who admitted he enjoyed having similar conversations with previous Rangers boss Pedro Caixinha, will also want to pick the brains of Gerrard's coach Gary McAllister, who also moved from Liverpool to link up with his former teammate.

"Hopefully I can have a chat with Gerrard tonight, even if he can spare five minutes or 15," said Ruscoe.

"Last year when went up and I had a long chat with Pedro. I went into his office straight away; when we dropped the bags off he said he wanted to chat to the manager asap and I thought that was good.

"He told me about his thoughts and pre-season etc; he took a real interest.

"Gerrard is one of my heroes although I’m older than him. But I watched him play as one of the best players in the Premier League and if there’s anything he can give me to help TNS, plus Gary McAllister too who is his coach, then great."

Rangers also face Macedonian opposition for their Europa League first round qualifier as they host FC Shkupi at Ibrox on July 12.

The clash with Gerrard's side will be behind closed doors as Ruscoe finalises his preparations for a a huge week which could set the tone for TNS's season as the Park Hall men look to improve their recent European record, plus a Europa League safety net.