Sam Allardyce thinks he knows who’ll be next Leeds manager – it’s not just ‘wild speculation’
Sam Allardyce has explained exactly why there may be some truth to “wild speculation” that Steven Gerrard is being lined up for the Leeds United job.
Daniel Farke is under pressure as Leeds manager amid a poor run of form that has seen the Whites drop into the Premier League relegation zone.
Farke is set to speak ahead of Leeds’ clash with Manchester City on Thursday as planned, but the German’s future is undoubtedly under the spotlight right now.
Gerrard has been mentioned as a contender to manage Leeds should the 49ers indeed decide to get rid of Farke.
And Allardyce does not believe that is as far-fetched as some are making out.
Rangers connection could see Steven Gerrard hired by Leeds
Allardyce has experience of managing Leeds in a relegation battle, having failed to keep the Whites up in 2022-23.
The veteran manager was given four games to do what he is a self-proclaimed expert in at keeping teams in the division.
Now, speaking on his No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, Allardyce was asked about “wild speculation” that Gerrard could be next through the door at Elland Road, given the 49ers’ links to Rangers and Leeds.
Gerrard is currently out of work and recent turned down the prospect of a return to Rangers, who are also owned by the 49ers Enterprises.
Allardyce said: “I don’t think it’s wild speculation. They’re connected in terms of the ownership. It’s something [Gerrard’s] looking for, you know?
“Can he handle the pressure of avoiding relegation? Believe you me, your whole life is absorbed by keeping that team safe.”
Gerrard’s Premier League managerial record makes for grim reading
Gerrard achieved massive success as Rangers boss as he guided the Gers to Scottish Premiership success in style in 2021.
That was the Englishman’s first senior managerial position, but he has since flopped at Aston Villa and indeed in the Middle East with Al-Ettifaq.
Gerrard had a 32.5 per cent win rate as Villa boss, winning 13 of his 40 games in charge and losing 19 of those.
At Al-Ettifaq, meanwhile, he lasted just just six months before departing in January this year and has been out of work since.
If the 49ers are going to replace Farke, then his replacement needs to be spot on. And in Gerrard, many will fear that would not be the right choice.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Leeds United news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account –@motleedsnews