A late equaliser extended Al-Ettifaq's winless run to nine games, but club bosses are prepared to be patient with Steven Gerrard.

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Al-Ettifaq winless in nine gamesClub patient with Steven GerrardBoss will look for new recruitsWHAT HAPPENED?

On Thursday Gerrard's side conceded a 91st-minute equaliser to draw 1-1 with bottom of the table Al-Hazm. Former Everton winger Demarai Gray gave Al-Ettifaq the lead, but the late goal means they are now winless in nine games. Despite that, Gerrard's job appears to be safe.

AdvertisementWHAT BEN JACOBS SAID

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Al-Ettifaq "plan to be patient with Gerrard." Jacobs also explained how the club will attempt to rectify their situation. He said: "Ettifaq will be largely exploring the local market in January and are hoping to bring in two to three players. But they are already planning ahead for three important foreign signings next summer."

Getty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

There was great excitement in Saudi Arabia when Gerrard was appointed Ettifaq manager in July, as there was when the likes of Jordan Henderson, Georginio Wijnaldum, Moussa Dembele and Gray joined him in Dammam. However, the club have drawn five and lost four of their last nine games, including a defeat to Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in the last-16 of the King's Cup.

GettyWHAT NEXT FOR GERRARD AND AL-ETTIFAQ?

Ettifaq are already 25 points behind Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal, so Gerrard's focus will be on turning things around in the second half of the season. He's now got a month-and-half break to regroup and prepare for his side's clash with Al-Khaleej on February 15.