- Steven Gerrard will return to Anfield as a pundit for TNT Sports during the Liverpool vs. Aston Villa match on Saturday.
- Gerrard previously managed Aston Villa and had successful stints at both Liverpool and LA Galaxy.
- The ex-Liverpool captain turned down a managerial role at Rangers, preferring family time and new challenges.
- During an interview with Rio Ferdinand, Gerrard expressed interest in future management opportunities.
Return of a Legend: Steven Gerrard as Pundit for TNT Sports
On Saturday, Steven Gerrard, the former Liverpool legend and current U18s manager at Kirkby, will make his debut as a pundit on TNT Sports. The match in question is a Premier League encounter between Liverpool and Aston Villa, two clubs with which Gerrard has deep ties.
A Look Back: Gerrard’s Career
Steven Gerrard’s career with Liverpool spanned over 15 years, during which he became one of the club’s most iconic figures. His final stint at Liverpool ended in 2015 when he moved to LA Galaxy, only to return as a youth team manager before taking on roles at Rangers and Aston Villa.
At Aston Villa, Gerrard faced challenges but managed to secure Scottish Premiership glory with Rangers. However, his time at Villa was cut short after an 11-month tenure. Following this stint in the English top-flight, he ventured into Middle Eastern football by managing Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia.
Turning Down a Managerial Role
In a recent interview with Rio Ferdinand, Gerrard discussed his decision-making process regarding future managerial roles. He explicitly stated that despite being offered the chance to return to Rangers, he chose not to accept it. “I felt like I had that to a tee at Rangers,” Gerrard said, referring to the support from Gary McAllister and Michael Beale.
However, Gerrard also emphasized his desire for new challenges: “A lot of coach changes at Aston Villa and over in Saudi didn’t help me personally. I’d love another go at some point. I want to change a few things and improve a few things, come back fresh with a few different people around myself,” he added.
Back at Anfield: A New Chapter
Gerrard’s return as a pundit for TNT Sports signifies a new chapter in his career. The match against Aston Villa promises to be an emotional one for the ex-Liverpool captain, given that both clubs hold significant memories for him. Liverpool is eager to bounce back after a run of four consecutive Premier League losses, while Aston Villa enters the game on a six-match unbeaten streak.
Joining Gerrard will be his former teammates Steve McManaman and Joe Cole, lending their expertise to the broadcast. This lineup of pundits is expected to provide insightful commentary as the two former Liverpool greats analyze the performance of their former clubs.
Finding Balance: Family Time and Future Ambitions
Gerrard’s decision to turn down a managerial role at Rangers highlights his current priorities. He revealed that family time and new challenges are key factors in his career choices, as evidenced by his recent move from Al-Ettifaq. “There’s a part of me that still feels there’s a bit of unfinished business,” he stated, hinting at the possibility of returning to management.
The match against Aston Villa not only marks Gerrard’s return to Anfield but also represents an opportunity for him to reconnect with fans and revisit his storied career. As a pundit, Gerrard is expected to provide valuable insights, making this a highly anticipated broadcast for football enthusiasts across the UK.
