Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been linked with a sensational return to management. Following his departure from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, the former midfielder is now linked with the vacant job at Carlisle United.

The Anfield icon has experienced a whirlwind career in management since finishing his Liverpool playing career. First, Gerrard hit the heights of fame in Scotland with an invincible title victory with Rangers.

It was followed by an uneasy year with Aston Villa, and to follow a shock period in the Saudi Pro League ultimately ended with his resignation on the back of poor results last month. As the 44-year-old returns to his homeland to map out his next venture, The Daily Mail has claimed that Carlisle United have his name on their list of managers to consider.

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The side rooted to the bottom of League Two are five points adrift of safety, have made 12 winter signings, and now spectacularly parted ways with their second manager of the campaign, former Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson. Carlisle's ambitious American owners have reportedly raised the unlikely prospect of luring Gerrard to Brunton Park in a desperate bid to secure their EFL status.

BonusCodeBets have the ex-Reds captain down as 4/1 to replace Williamson in what would be a sensational immediate return to coaching. However, the 6/4 favourite option for Gerrard's next career move is a return to punditry, which he formerly took up with BT Sports, now TNT Sports.

As he departed Al-Ettifaq, Gerrard penned the statement: "I want to sincerely thank everyone at the club for their support and hard work. Football in Saudi Arabia is moving in the right direction, and I’ll always appreciate my time here. Wishing the tea, and the fans nothing but success moving forward."