Middlesbrough FC next manager: Liverpool legend and ex-Rangers and Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard 'sounded out'
Middlesbrough have reportedly sounded out Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard about becoming their next head coach.
Rob Edwards is yet to be unveiled as the new Wolverhampton Wanderers boss, although the expectation is that he will vacate his Riverside post.
Middlesbrough are sitting second in the Championship table and a lengthy hiring process could disrupt their campaign.
A swift appointment, therefore, could be in the club’s best interests as they look to maintain momentum.
Steven Gerrard eyed
According to SportsBoom, Gerrard is in Middlesbrough’s sights as they look for an Edwards successor.
It has been suggested he will be contacted imminently in order for his interest level to be gauged.
The 45-year-old, widely considered one of the greatest Premier League players of all time, has been out of work since the end of his stint at Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq in January.
He was strongly linked with a return to Rangers last month, only for a reunion not to materialise.
Gerrard has also coached within Liverpool’s academy and led Aston Villa in the Premier League.
Linked names and current position
Middlesbrough have also been linked with Cardiff City boss Brian Barry-Murphy, who only took charge of the Bluebirds in the summer.
Gary O’Neil, the former Middlesbrough midfielder axed as Wolves boss last year, is also reportedly in the frame.
Adi Viveash, Edwards’ assistant, was tasked with overseeing Middlesbrough’s meeting with Birmingham City at the weekend.
He led the club to a 2-1 home win and looks set to continue as caretaker until a permanent resolution is found.
On Saturday (November 8), he said: “Footballers are resilient, their job is to produce for the club they play for. We showed a lot of grit, desire, and I would say that has been apparent in most games this season. If you work hard, luck falls on you.
“It’s been an interesting time. I have been around the game a lot, this is not the first time this has happened. It is about trying to control the controllables.
“All the players can control is trying to produce the best version of themselves and try to get these amazing fans involved. The noise before was a tidal wave and we started so well because of that.”