Netflix could save Steven Gerrard from sack as Saudi insider airs 'embarrassing' reason at centre of crisis talks
Under-pressure Steven Gerrard is facing crisis talks over his Saudi Pro League future during the international break.
The former Rangers boss' £15million-a-year job looks on the brink after Friday’s 3-1 defeat by leaders Al Hilal left Al-Ettifaq 17 points behind their conquerors – and just four points off the relegation zone. The Liverpool legend’s side have taken just one point from their last seven league matches and fans are furious, turning on him when they lost the derby with Al Qadsiah 2-0 at home last week.
Attendances are also declining. Gerrard extended his deal until 2027 in January so he would be entitled to a sizeable pay-off if he was relieved of his duties. But Gerrard is still confident of turning it around, saying: “I am aware of the team’s poor results and I do not think I have reached the stage of dismissal. We have to correct mistakes.”
A six-episode Netflix documentary could help him stay in his position. The series, which rolls out later this month, is aimed at extolling the growth and success of the Saudi Pro League, and includes Gerrard and Cristiano Ronaldo among the A-list stars. A SPL official said: “It would be a bit embarrassing to sack Steven Gerrard around the time Netflix release a documentary glorifying all things about our league. But he is in need of some positive results.”
Follow Record Sport on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for all of the up-to-the minute breaking news, video and audio on the SPFL, the Scotland national team and beyond. You can also follow our dedicated Rangers and Celtic podcast pages and sign up to our newsletters to make sure you never miss a beat throughout the season. We've also entered the world of WhatsApp with our Rangers community and Celtic community up and running. Follow NOW to get your club's latest breaking news and transfer gossip directly to your phone.