Under-fire Steven Gerrard booed by Al Ettifaq fans following 'embarrassing' defeat to rivals

11/03/2024 07:15 AM

Steven Gerrard was booed by the Al Ettifaq fans after losing their their local rivals on Saturday night.

Ettifaq lost 2-0 at home to Al Qadsiah in the Saudi Pro League and extended their dismal run.

It is now four defeats in their last six games for Gerrard‘s side, leaving them 11th in the table.

Videos circulating on social media show the Liverpool legend being booed by the Ettifaq fans following the defeat.

After the match, Gerrard said: “I spoke to the players. If we had performed like this before, we would not have put ourselves in this embarrassing situation, but I bear the responsibility.

“We conceded the first goal from a set-piece. Previously, we used to defend better from set pieces.

“The second goal was scored by a young player, and he made the same mistake he made against Al-Fayha. The player is young, and I bear responsibility for the second goal.

“I bear full responsibility for using a young player in defence, as he has little experience.

“His recruitment was to prepare him for development and the future, and using him was not appropriate, but due to injuries, we were put in this position.”

Speculation is growing about whether Gerrard will be sacked by the Saudi club.

Publication Al-Youm report that the club’s hierarchy are considering making a change at the helm and are expected to make a final decision this week.

The former Rangers and Aston Villa boss was hired by the Saudi Pro League outfit in July 2023, but has won just 17 of his 46 games in charge.

The 44-year-old being under pressure comes as his old club Rangers, where he won the Scottish Premiership, have an issue themselves.

Philippe Clement is reportedly hanging on by a thread, currently sitting a massive 14 points behind Celtic after just 10 games.

The bookies have installed Gerrard as one of the favourites to replace Clement.