“Steven Gerrard Emerges as Top Contender for Managerial Role with Key Insights from Ex-LFC Teammate”

“Steven Gerrard Tops Shortlist for Managerial Role as Ex-LFC Teammate Offers Insider Insight”

Two-and-a-half years after being dismissed by Aston Villa, Steven Gerrard is being linked with a return to English football.

The former Liverpool captain has been out of a job since January, following his departure from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq after an 18-month tenure marked by criticism of his training schedule. Gerrard may now be a candidate for a managerial position in his native England.

Earlier this week, Southampton parted ways with Ivan Juric after their relegation from the Premier League. Simon Rusk has been named interim manager for the second time this season, with Saints midfielder Adam Lallana serving as his assistant.

Gerrard Among Leading Candidates for Southampton Post

According to Birmingham World, Gerrard is reportedly “high up the list” of potential candidates to take over as Southampton’s next permanent manager.

Steve Cooper, sacked by Leicester in November, is currently seen as the top contender for the role, with Sean Dyche also among the favorites to fill the vacancy.

Other names mentioned, though less likely according to bookmakers, include former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, who is given a modest 9.1% chance of landing the job.

LEICESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 2: Adam Lallana (left) celebrates with Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard after equalizing in a Barclays Premier League match against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium on December 2, 2014. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

Gerrard Aims to Rebuild His Reputation in English Football

Southampton are expected to delay appointing a permanent successor to Ivan Juric until the summer, as the compensation costs for hiring a manager currently under contract would be lower for a second-tier Championship team rather than a Premier League club (The Athletic). For now, their primary objective is to secure the two points needed to avoid surpassing Derby County’s 2007/08 season as the worst in Premier League history.

If Steven Gerrard is chosen to take the helm at St. Mary’s, he might rely on his former Liverpool teammate Adam Lallana for insight into the club. Whether by retaining Lallana as part of the coaching staff or seeking informal advice, Gerrard could gain valuable knowledge to guide his approach.

Gerrard’s last stint as a manager in England ended poorly, with Aston Villa dismissing him in October 2022 after less than a year in charge. At the time, Villa were languishing in 17th place, and the fans’ frustration with his tenure was evident. The team’s dramatic turnaround under successor Unai Emery further highlighted the underwhelming nature of Gerrard’s spell in charge.

Despite these setbacks, Gerrard, who excelled at Rangers earlier in his managerial career, may view Southampton as an opportunity to prove his growth and adaptability. The task won’t be easy, as the club will expect an immediate return to the Premier League and a significant improvement in competitiveness following their disappointing season and previous relegation struggles.

As a player, Gerrard thrived under pressure, and he will be eager to channel that resilience into his managerial endeavors. With lessons learned from his time at Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq, the Liverpool icon will hope to restore his reputation and establish himself as a capable leader in English football.