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Steven Gerrard’s decision to turn down a return to Rangers last month has not seemed to allay the Liverpool legend from being linked to other roles.
The 45-year-old came “very close” to heading back to Ibrox after Russell Martin’s dismissal but ultimately withdrew from the process, citing concerns over timing.
Gerrard admitted everything had to be “perfect” for him to take on such a significant challenge, and despite positive talks with Rangers’ ownership, he felt the move was too rushed.
Now, however, a fresh managerial vacancy has emerged that could reignite Gerrard’s career in England. Middlesbrough are on the hunt for a new boss after Rob Edwards departed for Premier League strugglers Wolves in a deal worth between £3-4 million in compensation.
Edwards, who only joined Boro in June on a three-year contract, left the Riverside after being granted permission to speak with his former club, where he made over 100 appearances as a player.
According to talkSPORT’s Ally McCoist, Gerrard is among the candidates being considered for the vacant position at the Riverside Stadium.
The former Rangers and Aston Villa manager features on a three-man shortlist alongside former Middlesbrough boss Tony Mowbray and Valencia coach Carlos Corberan.
McCoist suggested the Championship role could appeal to Gerrard as he looks to rebuild his managerial reputation following his stint in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq.
He said on talkSPORT:
“I think his next job… He’ll get one, I think it’s absolutely vital that it’s the right one for him,” he replied.
“In answer to your question, I don’t know at this moment in time which is the better job between Norwich and Southampton. Both of them are in free fall.”
“If you’re asking me right now which one of the three you’re taking, you’re taking Middlesbrough all day.”
When quizzed on whether Boro would approach Gerrard, McCoist replied: “I think they might, you know? I think the might.”
“Because the one thing you’re going to get, you’re going to get a really hungry man that really knows…”I’m not saying it’s a last chance saloon, but it might be the last chance saloon, because he has to get it right.”
“Anybody in management is a gamble, complete gamble but Steve Gibson [chairman], who is a very intelligent man, will weigh that up.”
“He’d look at Steven and say, you know… Maybe, maybe.”
Middlesbrough have made it clear they are in no rush to appoint Edwards’ successor, with the club keen to conduct a thorough recruitment process.
Whether Gerrard views the Teesside club as the “perfect” challenge he spoke about remains to be seen.
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