Out-of-work manager Steven Gerrard may have an additional reason for turning down work with Rangers that could see him delay a return to coaching in the United Kingdom
Steven Gerrard speaks into a microphone
Steven Gerrard nearly returned to Rangers(Image: TNT Sports)
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Steven Gerrard plans to return to management in England, but is not planning on eyeing a job until April. And that is because tax laws could require him to stump up around £10million if he makes his return any sooner, according to reports.
The Liverpool icon must remain outside of the country for a full tax year to ensure his earnings to remain tax-free after departing Al-Ettifaq in January. It is said that Gerrard would have to repay as much as 45 per cent of his earnings if he returns permanently before the spring.
Gerrard is allowed to return to the UK but for no more than 91 days in the tax year. His assistant, Michael Beale, is noted to be in a similar situation after leaving the Saudi club with Gerrard.
The former England midfielder has been linked with multiple jobs and came close to taking the hotseat at Rangers. Gerrard decided against returning to the club with which he went unbeaten to win the Scottish Premiership title.
It was reported the 45-year-old had some reservations about working under the Rangers sporting structure. Sporting director Kevin Thelwell has since departed Ibrox but Gerrard's concerns were over his lack of control.
Speaking after Danny Rohl had been appointed as Rangers boss, Gerrard put his decision to avoid the job down to timing. Speaking to TNT Sports, he revealed: "In terms of Rangers, very close. I had some really positive and interesting talks with the owners.
"It felt a bit rushed to me because I had my family in Bahrain at the time. I had a lot to think about and a short space of time to give a decision.
"There was a few things that I was uncertain about. And if I'm going to take a challenge that big and that important, I've got that affection and that connection with Rangers.
Steven Gerrard during his time in Saudi Arabia.
Steven Gerrard during his time in Saudi Arabia.
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"For me to take that on again, it had to be perfect and I had to be 100 per cent ready. Unfortunately, I wasn't due to the timing, so I stepped aside, and I wish them all the best. They've got a fantastic manager now. I'll watch as a fan from afar and I wish them all the best, certainly tomorrow in the Old Firm game."
Pressed upon his reasoning, Gerrard responded: "No, the timing wasn't right from a family point of view. But of course, you have to do your due diligence in certain things and if things are not perfect, as well, I have to analyse is it right for me?
"The pressure and the responsibility is on your shoulders, it's such a massive challenge and a massive club. My heart was there, and it always will be with Rangers, but I've also got to look at the football side of it.
"Is it right for me? Is the timing right? And are things perfect for me to be the best version of myself in that job? Unfortunately, the timing, that didn't feel right to me."
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