STEVEN GERRARD reckons midfielder Ryan Jack is captain material thanks to his big heart.

The Rangers boss was full of praise for Jack after the victory over Hibernian on Sunday.

The 27-year-old has established himself as a key part of Gerrard’s squad and is set to line up against Midtjylland in the Europa League third qualifying round tonight.

Right-back James Tavernier currently wears the Ibrox armband but Gerrard has no doubt that Jack will continue to lead by example.

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He said: “I think he has definitely improved but I wouldn’t want to take credit for that.

“I’m not sure whether Gary (McAllister) wants to take all of it. You will have to ask him.

“Ryan Jack has worked his socks off, on and off the pitch. He has listened to every single detail we have given him in terms of formations, philosophies, game plans. He is asking questions about where he needs to be, what he needs to do.

“The main ingredient why Ryan Jack is where he is is because he has got something inside him. It’s called a big heart. And he empties that for you every time he plays football. When you’re a manager and you pick teams, forget talent.

“If you know someone is going to empty the tank for you, give you everything and put their body on the line, they are the ones you normally go with in every position.

“Ryan has given me every drop, everything inside his body. At the right time, I am sure he will be rewarded.

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“We are really happy with our captain. I read that we were linked with a right-back in midweek, which is total rubbish.

“James is a big part of what we’re doing here. He has been one of my consistent players as well.

“So while James is here and he is happy and he is performing, he will remain captain. But time will tell.

“Jacko is captain material. Whether he is captain under my reign here will depend on time and movement in the transfer window I suppose.”