Steven Gerrard is considered a top contender for the managerial role, with his former Liverpool teammate potentially offering valuable 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 leaving Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq in January, following an 18-month spell marked by criticism over his training methods. Now, he could be in line for another managerial role in his homeland.

Southampton recently parted ways with Ivan Juric after their relegation from the Premier League, with Simon Rusk stepping in as interim manager, assisted by Saints midfielder and Gerrard’s ex-teammate Adam Lallana.

According to Birmingham World, Gerrard is considered one of the leading candidates for the Southampton vacancy. Steve Cooper, who was let go by Leicester in November, is currently the favourite, with Sean Dyche also in the running. Other potential options include Rafael Benitez, although his chances are rated lower.

The Saints are expected to delay a permanent appointment until the summer, when compensation for hiring a manager from another club would be less costly for a Championship team. In the meantime, their priority is to avoid becoming the worst team in Premier League history, needing just two more points to steer clear of that unwanted record.

Should Gerrard take the job, he could benefit from Lallana’s inside knowledge of the club, whether by keeping him on staff or consulting him informally.

His last role in English football ended badly, with Aston Villa sacking him in October 2022 after a disappointing run left them 17th in the table. That tough spell, especially in contrast to Unai Emery’s success since, dented Gerrard’s reputation, which had previously been boosted by a strong stint at Rangers.

Taking the Southampton job would bring high expectations—chiefly, immediate promotion and a much-improved team. But Gerrard, known for thriving under pressure during his playing career, will be hoping to turn things around and prove himself as a manager if given the opportunity.