Gerrard will know he's fortunate to have someone of Davis' quality leading his squad

There was, however, always the sense that Davis was destined to return to Glasgow for unfinished business. Moreover, Gary McAllister, Gerrard's trusty assistant, is sure to appreciate the Ulsterman more than most, considering he had a similar, successful Indian Summer at Liverpool as his playing days drew to a close.

Ibrox boss Gerrard has spoken of his enormous respect for Davis, 36, on previous occasions, and on Friday he reiterated Rangers' good fortune.

"The sacrifices they (Davis) make to be the best version of themselves," was a particularly appropriate summary of the north Antrim native, set to become the most-capped international in British football as well. A lesson in life for us all, in fact.

Quite apart from his game intelligence, passing ability and coolness under fire, there is much more to admire about the midfielder off the field. No bravado, no noise, no crassly overt playing to the gallery - invariably a temptation for more brittle personalities in the Glasgow goldfish bowl - has always been a feature of Davis' conduct in and around the city.

The consummate role model, his ultra-professional behaviour at Rangers - like that at international level - gives managers, whether it is Gerrard, Walter Smith, Ian Baraclough or Michael O'Neill, one less thing to worry about.

Back to the degree of unfinished business at Ibrox for Davis. Having won three titles in his first Rangers stint, it is quite possible that an anticipated Premiership bauble this time around, finally ending Celtic's domestic stranglehold, would be the most satisfying for the player.

Nevertheless, while Celtic appear to have patented the fine art of self-destruction amid a surreal, catastrophic season, Rangers still have a priority to maintain. Davis, like Gerrard, is the least likely of individuals to put any cart before the horse.

At Fir Park, the Gers will be expected to gather up another workaday three points in their irresistible campaign against a Motherwell side in transition and just one point from the foot of the table. The Steelmen may gain a bounce on account of new manager Graham Alexander, who replaced Stephen Robinson 10 days ago. Former Scotland international Alexander raised a few eyebrows upon his appointment and many 'Well fans believed Tommy Wright would have been a better option overall.

Another diligent showing from Rangers, to follow the 2-1 win at Aberdeen last weekend, will be needed to keep momentum going. Davis, who has already played 35 games for club and country this term, will be central to this mood movement as always. Midfield partner Glen Kamara has been the recipient of justified high praise all season - but to what extent has Davis been an influence? As Rangers roll on, this is one quietly effective partnership, more notable for its flexibility considering Ryan Jack's injury absence.

This column mentioned last week that it was time for Ryan Kent to show his best form for Gerrard again - and the winger was tremendous at Pittodrie. Speaking of wingers, Kent may have some competition soon in the shape of Aberdeen's Scott Wright, who is on the radar.

With Gerrard keen on tying up a deal, it surely means curtains for fringe men like Greg Stewart, Jordan Jones and possibly Brandon Barker. Equally though, Rangers are not inclined for an influx in new personnel at this point.

It makes little sense when you already have a cohesive, dominant squad. It will also be little surprise if the Light Blues forge another marker towards the title today.