Steven Gerrard takes step closer to management return as boss publicly calls out players

Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson publicly criticized his players' lack of effort after a 1-0 defeat, fueling speculation that Steven Gerrard could be called upon to replace him.

Steven Gerrard has been linked with the Wrexham manager's job after Phil Parkinson publicly called out his players for failing to show enough spirit and desire in their 1-0 loss to Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.

Parkinson, who has managed Wrexham since their rise through the leagues, expressed frustration with his side's inconsistency this season. Despite some good performances, he felt the team lacked the "consistent effort level and desire every week" that the club's supporters expect. "When supporters are paying good money to watch us play, I want them driving away feeling the team has given them everything," Parkinson said after the match.

Gerrard, the Liverpool icon, has been out of management since leaving Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq in January 2025. Reports claim he is open to the Wrexham role and has "said yes" to taking over, though nothing is confirmed. Parkinson remains in his post and is expected to be given a chance to turn things around, but Gerrard is among several managers being linked with the position.