Steven Gerrard tipped for managerial return just days after leaving Saudi Arabia
Steven Gerrard finds himself out of work following his departure from Al Ettifaq but one of his former England team-mates believes he deserves another crack at management
Steven Gerrard still has plenty to offer the management game despite his Al Ettifaq departure, according to Alan Shearer.
Gerrard's stint in the Saudi Pro League came to an end with the club struggling down in 12th in the 18-team league. Despite extending his contract until 2027 only last year, Gerrard left by mutual consent, having initially taken the job in 2023.
He has already been linked with a return to English football, with League Two strugglers Carlisle United's ambitious US owners reportedly pondering an audacious bid to land the Liverpool legend. But with the Cumbrians five points from safety, it is highly unlikely Gerrard will return to football in the fourth tier.
However, Shearer, Gerrard's former international team-mate, believes he deserves another chance in management. He told Betfair: "I hope he gets back into management in the UK. He clearly doesn't have to work, but I hope it's not the last we've seen of him or Wayne Rooney.
"I hope someone, somewhere gives Gerrard the opportunity to go in and manage just like Frank [Lampard] is doing really well at Coventry now. Frank has taken Coventry from the relegation places really close to the play-offs. So I hope, very much like Frank, that Gerrard gets another job somewhere in the game."
Following his departure from Al Ettifaq, Gerrard said: "I want to express my gratitude to the club, the players, the fans, and everyone involved for the opportunity and the support during my time here.
"From the first day I was warmly welcomed and I have enjoyed the chance to work in a new country with a different culture. So overall I have learnt a lot and it's been a positive experience personally and for my family as well.
"But football is unpredictable and sometimes things don't go the way we want. However, I leave with great respect for the club and the country."
Gerrard might find it tough to secure a top role after being shown the door by Aston Villa in October 2022. His tenure at Villa Park lasted less than a year following his departure from Rangers, where he clinched the Scottish Premiership title.
Rooney is currently without a job after being dismissed by Championship side Plymouth during the festive period. Prior to that, the Manchester United and England icon was given the boot by Birmingham City after only 15 games in charge.