Steven Gerrard is reportedly a top contender for the managerial role, with his former Liverpool teammate potentially offering valuable inside insight.

Two and a half years after his dismissal from Aston Villa, Steven Gerrard is being linked with a potential return to English football management.

The former Liverpool skipper has been without a job since leaving Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq in January, following an 18-month stint marked by criticism over how he handled training schedules. Now, he could be in contention for a new role back home.

Earlier this week, Southampton parted ways with Ivan Juric after their relegation from the Premier League was confirmed. Simon Rusk has stepped in as interim boss for the second time this season, with midfielder Adam Lallana serving as his assistant.

Gerrard seen as a serious candidate for Southampton post
According to Birmingham World, Gerrard is considered one of the top contenders for the Southampton job as the club searches for a permanent manager.

Former Leicester boss Steve Cooper is currently viewed as the leading candidate, with Sean Dyche also in the mix. Other names have been mentioned too, including ex-Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, though his chances are rated lower.

A chance at redemption for Gerrard?
Southampton are expected to wait until summer to finalize a new appointment, as doing so could reduce compensation costs for managers currently under contract elsewhere. In the meantime, the club’s focus is on avoiding the unwanted record of being the Premier League’s worst-ever team, needing just two more points to do so.

Should Gerrard be appointed, he could benefit from a familiar face in Adam Lallana—his former Liverpool teammate—either as a formal part of his staff or as someone to consult for insight into the club.

Gerrard’s last managerial role in England ended in disappointment, with Aston Villa sacking him in October 2022 amid poor results and growing fan unrest. His short-lived success at Rangers was overshadowed by the stark contrast in Villa’s fortunes under Unai Emery, which cast his time at the club in an even dimmer light.

Taking the Southampton job would come with high expectations, especially with promotion being the immediate goal. But as someone who thrived under pressure during his playing career, Gerrard will be eager to prove he’s grown as a manager and ready to rebuild his reputation on home soil.