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Gerrard gets booed by home fans
Steven Gerrard came faced with a disappointing match as Al-Ettifaq manager on Saturday night, with his team falling 2-0 at home to Al-Qadsiah in the SaudiProLeague.
Following the game, some fans expressed their frustration, calling for change as they hoped for an improvement in the team's performance. Some of the fans even 'booed' him showing their anger and despair following their club's below-par outing.
Gerrard has been leading Al-Ettifaq for 16 months and is reported to be earning £15.2 million annually while living across the border in Bahrain.
πΈπ¦π¬ Steven Gerrard was booed by Al-Ettifaq fans as his side suffered their 4th loss in 6 games...
β CentreGoals. (@centregoals) November 3, 2024
They currently sit 11th in the Saudi Pro League.
pic.twitter.com/GJAvEP79Ub
Al-Ettifaq finished in sixth place last season; however, they currently find themselves kneeling in the 11th position after nine rounds of the 2024-25 season.
Gerrard takes full responsibility for the losses
In the wake of Friday's defeat, Gerrard emphasized the importance of communication with his players. He mentioned that if they had applied themselves differently in previous matches, they could have avoided the current conditions. He also took responsibility for the team's performance.
Despite the recent pressure surrounding his position, Gerrard remains focused on finding a path forward and improving the team's results as they progress through the season.
"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," Gerrard said.
"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," he added.
In response to the rumours regarding emergency talks, Gerrard clarified that he and the team did meet yesterday, noting that such discussions occur regularly after every match.
While the calls for a change in leadership may grow louder following Saturday’s game, which marked Al-Ettifaq's fourth loss in six matches across all competitions, it’s important to note that some fans continue to show their support for the gaffer.
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