Steven Gerrard is reported to be a candidate after three candidates were floated to be Middlesbrough’s next manager. Boro are looking for a new manager ahead of Rob Edwards’ controversial move to Wolves after just five months in charge at Riverside. The Championship promotion hopefuls are expected to receive a hefty £3m fee after Edwards, 42, agreed a three-and-a-half year deal.
His appointment is likely to be decided on Tuesday. Gerrard is one of three managers Middlesbrough are considering, but they are not rushing to make a decision. Joining the Liverpool legend on the shortlist are former Boro player and manager Tony Mowbray and Valencia manager Carlos Cobelan, who left West Brom midway through last season.
Gerrard resigned as Al Etifaq manager in January and has been out of work for almost a year. The 45-year-old had the chance to return to Rangers last month but declined after meeting with Ibrox bosses.
Gerrard managed Glasgow Giants from 2018 to 2021, winning the title in his third and final full season. His team remained unbeaten as Rangers were crowned Scottish champions for the first time in 10 years.
Asked earlier this month how close he was to winning a second job, Gerrard said: “Very close. I’ve had some very positive and interesting discussions with the owners. I had family in Bahrain at the time so it felt a bit rushed. There was a lot to think about in a short amount of time before making a decision.”
“There were some apprehensions, but if I was going to take on such a big and important challenge, I had such a love and connection with Rangers that I had to be perfect and 100 per cent ready to take on it again.
“Unfortunately the timing wasn’t right so I stepped aside and wish them the best. They’ve got a great manager and I’ll be watching from afar as a fan and wish them the best.”
Meanwhile, at Middlesbrough, experienced coach Adrian Viveash, who is part of Edwards’ coaching staff, led his team to a 2-1 victory over Birmingham City at the Riverside on Saturday. Fans held banners criticizing Edwards, who was relieved of his duties on Friday, and chanted protests.
