The hot topic this week was Steven Gerrard’s announcement that he will not renew his contract at LA Galaxy and at 36 it seems that this decision could well spell the end of his playing days.
Time moves quick in football and reports suggest the Liverpool legend has already taken steps to become a manager. Whilst many would have believed that a return in some capacity to his beloved Liverpool could have been the next step, Gerrard has instead opted for MK Dons.
The League One side currently in 21st place have confirmed that they have opened talks with Gerrard for the role of manager. The news has surprised many because instant failure at a club with little resources has somewhat tarnished other ex players careers. Roy Keane and Tony Adams included. On the flip side of course is the experience that Gerrard craves and right now the only way is up for the Dons who have suffered a miserable start to their League One campaign.
He would certainly fill the dressing room with an awe and respect and this is what MK Dons chairman Pete Winkleman would be looking for.
Gerrard left LA Galaxy without getting his hands on the MLS title unlike his former England team mate David Beckham and some have suggested that his move there was a mistake. Indeed when he first decided to go many pundits believed he was still good enough to remain in the Premier League.
Gerrard left Los Angeles having played 38 games in total including cups and scoring 5 goals. Goals wise Gerrard had never been so poor since his 3rd season with Liverpool in 2001/02.
If Gerrard which it now seems highly likely has decided to hang up his boots he has a glittering career of trophies with Liverpool which includes winning the Champions League, the FA Cup twice, the League Cup 3 times, UEFA Super Cup and the UEFA Cup in 2000. In total Gerrard has won 9 trophies. However there is a huge gap in his trophy cabinet and for now will ever be as a player and that is a league title.
Gerrard will aim to correct that as a manager and work his self up slowly but steadily. He is already confirmed to begin working on his UEFA A licence which is a requirement of UEFA for coaching in Europe.
Gerrard has confirmed that he has many options on and off the pitch and will evaluate these in the coming weeks with a possible announcement in January as to his future.
