STEVEN GERRARD has been named the 2021 William Hill Scottish Football Writers' Association Manager of the Year.

The 40-year-old has today collected the prize for the first time after leading Rangers to their historic 55th title success this season.

Gerrard's side sit 23 points clear of Old Firm rivals Celtic at the top of the table and face Livingston and Aberdeen this week aiming to complete an unbeaten Premiership campaign.

Rangers suffered disappointment in the Betfred Cup and Scottish Cup as they lost out to St Mirren and St Johnstone respectively and failed to reach the latter stages of either competition.

But they would enjoy a terrific run to the last 16 of the Europa League as they finished top of their section and saw off Royal Antwerp before being beaten by Slavia Prague.

The champions will be presented with the Premiership trophy after their meeting with the Dons at the weekend and Gerrard has now been recognised for his efforts by the SFWA.

Gerrard faced competition from Scotland boss Steve Clarke, Callum Davidson of St Johnstone and Livingston gaffer David Martindale to be crowned as Manger of the Year.

And it is the Ibrox boss that has added another trophy to his collection this term after the Association confirmed that he had come out on top in a poll of members.

Gerrard said: "I'm delighted to receive the award. I receive it collectively with my staff. I think that goes without saying because we are very much a team here.

"I think we have achieved the success we have this season as a team of staff and I thank all of you guys in the Press for voting for me and I certainly cherish the award."

Hibernian left-back Josh Doig has been named the Young Player of the Year, while four Rangers stars - Allan McGregor, James Tavernier, Connor Goldson and Steven Davis - are in the running for the Player of the Year prize this term.