Steven Gerrard has been given a clear path into football management after Burnley and Scott Parker parted ways just four games before the end of the Premier League season. The Clarets have already been relegated from the top flight and will return to the Championship just one season after promotion.
The decision gives Gerrard a path back into management, with the now vacant position potentially linked to a former Rangers and Aston Villa player. Gerrard left Saudi Professional League side Al Etifaq by mutual consent in January 2025 and has been away from management since then.
A statement from Burnley said: “Scott Parker has stepped down as head coach of Burnley Football Club by mutual consent. “Following confirmation of the club’s relegation from the Premier League last week, Parker and the board held discussions and mutually agreed that his tenure at Turf Moor is coming to an end.”
“During his tenure at Turf Moor, Parker led the Clarets to a record-breaking season in 2024/25, securing Burnley promotion from the Championship to the Premier League with a 33-game unbeaten run and an incredible 30 clean sheets. The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Scott for his professionalism, dedication and contribution. Scott leaves with great respect and gratitude to everyone associated with Burnley Football Club.”
“Mike Jackson will take charge on an interim basis for the Clarets’ remaining four Premier League games, starting with Friday’s away game against Leeds United, with support from existing backroom staff. The process to appoint a new permanent head coach for the 2026/27 season has begun.”
Commenting on his departure, Parker told Burnley’s website: “It has been a great honor to lead this great club over the past two years. I have enjoyed every moment we have shared together, but I feel now is the right time for both parties to move in different directions.”
“I look back with great pride at what we achieved during my time at the club, especially the unforgettable 2024/25 promotion season. It was a real privilege to lead this team into the Premier League and I would like to thank Alan and the ownership group for their support during my time at the club.”
“I would also like to thank the wonderful and energetic staff behind the scenes and, most importantly, the players who have given me everything from the first day I arrived.Finally, I would like to thank the Burnley fans. I wish you all the best for the future and this great club.”
Gerrard is considered by bookmakers to be the favorite to take over at Turf Moor, but the former Liverpool ace recently revealed he is not “itching” to return to the dugout. He explained: “There were parts of it that were fun,[but]there were also some tough times. It’s obviously not a good feeling to get fired…I guess so[taking on another job]is.”
“I’m not throwing my resume away, I’m not itching, I’m not desperate for an opportunity, but if my phone goes dead… I’ve had a few calls lately, and it’s just bad timing, family, or just not having the best time. But if something good comes along, I’m certainly open to the conversation.”
Burnley’s Championship journey continues with Friday’s away game against Leeds, followed by season-ending games against Aston Villa, Arsenal and Wolves.
