Jim White and Danny Murphy speculate on Leeds United-linked Steven Gerrard amid Saudi Arabia talk
Jim White and Danny Murphy have speculated over Steven Gerrard’s future after he was linked with the vacant Leeds United job.
According to journalist Romain Molina, Gerrard has arrived in Saudi Arabia as he prepares to take the Al-Ettifaq job. ESPN report that he’s weighing up a £9m-a-year contract (173,000-a-week),
The former Liverpool midfielder has previously been linked with Leeds, with The Telegraph reporting on 2 June that he was being considered alongside Scott Parker and Carlos Corberan.
Talking live on talkSPORT on Wednesday 14 June, Murphy and White discussed the 43-year-old’s next move.
“My understanding is that it’s not done [Saudi offer], but he is still in talks with them to see what they’ve got to offer,” said Murphy (talkSPORT).
White replied: “What’s he going to learn in Saudi?”
Murphy responded: “You learn anything at any level. And if they are trying to bring in a certain level of player then he’s going to have a good level to coach. I think it’s good to get away and reset. Build up your confidence again.
White added: “Was he interviewed at Leeds?”
“I don’t know but if there was another offer, what are you going to do, sit bone ideal doing nothing,” Murphy replied.
Strange move
It would certainly be a strange move if Gerrard does end up in the Middle East. The 43-year-old probably needs to cut his teeth in the Championship first. If this move doesn’t work out it’s hard to see where his career will go. He failed at Aston Villa and needs to rebuild his reputation in England first.
Leeds fans are probably relieved to hear of Gerrard’s move to Saudi. The Whites need a manager who is experienced in the second tier. Someone who knows how to gain promotion. Daniel Farke now looks like the most obvious candidate.
He’s been heavily linked with the job and has previous success with Norwich in the second tier. Furthermore, with Stuart Webber set to arrive from Norwich, a move for the German will make even more sense.
A resolution is needed soon. The longer the wait for a sporting director and manager goes on, the more Leeds’ chances of promotion will be hindered.
In other Leeds United news, a BBC pundit has been left stunned as Phil Hay has dropped a fresh update on who the Whites are considering bringing in as manager this summer.