Southampton are interested in both Steven Gerrard and Dean Smith to replace Nathan Jones as manager, according to journalist Dean Jones.
The Lowdown: Jones sacked
After averaging just 1.07 points per match in the dugout, Jones was sacked by the Southampton board, and there have already been several people managers with the vacant role.
Former Bayer Leverkusen boss Gerardo Seoane is said to be admired by the Saints, although they could also look to make an in-house appointment, by offering Ruben Selles the job, and bringing in a more experienced coach to support him.
The Latest: Gerrard and Smith eyed
In an interview with GIVEMESPORT, Jones detailed that there are now two more contenders for the position, saying:
“I have heard that the interest in Dean Smith and Steven Gerrard is genuine but it’s going to really depend on how they sell this job and how they explain why the club has imploded to end up in this mess – any incoming manager has to beware their own reputation is on the line.”
The Verdict: Worth pursuing?
It is fair to say that Gerrard did not fare well in his last job, being sacked as manager of Aston Villa after 11 months in charge, but he impressed considerably during his time with Rangers, winning the 2020-21 Scottish Premiership title.
However, the 42-year-old is still relatively experienced managing in English football, overseeing Villa for just 40 games, while Smith has a breadth of experience, having been in charge of four different clubs.
Given that Southampton are deep in relegation trouble, currently sitting four points from safety in the Premier League, they could do with an experienced head to come in and steady the ship.
However, the 51-year-old was dismissed by Norwich City after a run of just three wins in 13 Championship matches earlier this season, and so there are likely to be better options available for the Saints, including recently-linked Marcelo Gallardo, who has won the Copa Libertadores twice.