STEVEN GERRARD has emerged as the shock frontrunner for the vacant managerial job at Leeds.
The Whites decided to part ways with Sam Allardyce on Friday, just five days after they were relegated from the Premier League.
And according to the bookies, Gerrard is being hotly tipped to take over as manager.
The 43-year-old has been out of management since losing his job at Aston Villa last October.
Gerrard is yet to take charge of a Championship club, but accepting the role at Elland Road could put his managerial career back on track following an underwhelming spell with Villa.
Leeds midfielder Jack Harrison has previously admitted that the former Liverpool captain was one of his heroes growing up.
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In an interview with Football Focus last year, he said: “I grew up a Liverpool fan so Steven Gerrard and Michael Owen [were my heroes] but the biggest one for me was Ronaldinho. I always loved watching his technique and touches and he was just an icon for me.”
Along with Gerrard, the likes of Carlos Corberan, Brendan Rodgers, Graham Potter, Ralph Hasenhuttl and Rafa Benitez have all been linked with the job.
Allardyce was appointed Leeds boss at the beginning of May following the dismissal of Javi Gracia.
He had just four games to lead the club to safety, but the Whites fell short on the final day of the season.
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After his departure was announced, the 68-year-old said: “It has been an honour to manage Leeds United, a great club with an incredible fan base, who deserve to be in the Premier League.
“I have really enjoyed working with the staff and players at the club and I would like to thank Angus Kinnear for the opportunity.
“I’d also like to highlight the outstanding work of Karl Robinson and Robbie Keane who have worked tirelessly over the past few weeks.
“At this stage in my career I am not sure taking on this challenge, which is potentially a long-term project, is something I could commit to, but I wish the club every success for the future and hope the club returns to the Premier League, where they belong.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
