Steven Gerrard could be a step closer to returning to the dugout after Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson called out his players for lacking spirit. The Red Dragons, linked with a move for Gerrard, lost 1-0 to Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, continuing their poor start to the season.
Wrexham's struggles continue
The Welsh side, co-owned by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, sit 17th in the Championship after coming close to the play-offs last season. Ben Brereton-Diaz's goal secured the win for the Blades, prompting Parkinson to criticise his side's lack of passion and fight.
Parkinson has grown frustrated with his team, who have won only three of their 13 Championship matches this season. Earlier this month, it was reported that Gerrard was interested in becoming the next manager at the Racecourse Ground, which would be his first job since leaving Al-Ettifaq in January 2025.
Parkinson's public criticism
Following Friday night's loss, Parkinson said: "Whatever system you play or personnel you play, the team has to represent the town in the way it has done for the vast majority of the last five years.
"I think this season we have had some really good performance, but I don’t feel we have got the consistent effort level and desire every week. That’s what our fans are used to seeing."
He added: "We were similar at this stage last year. We were patchy and we worked with the group on an understanding as to what it means to play for this club and how much teams want to beat us. How much all the opposition supporters want to beat us. And what it takes to wear that shirt. We got it and nearly got in the play-offs. We have to get that level with this group."
Gerrard's potential return
Parkinson also said: "My mantra is when supporters are paying good money to watch us play, I want them driving away feeling the team has given them everything. If we still haven’t won, we go clap them and they clap us off because they have seen an unbelievable, spirited performance."
TalkSPORT recently reported that Gerrard is open to the role, which would be his first since leaving Saudi Arabia. TeamTalk also claimed Gerrard has "said yes" to taking over the club, though it remains far from a formality.
Parkinson is under pressure but is expected to be given an opportunity to turn things around. Gerrard is currently enjoying an expanded punditry role on TNT Sports' coverage this season.
Last month, Manchester United legend Bryan Robson suggested Gerrard may be an ideal fit for the Championship side. He said: "It's whether Stevie wants to get back into the game. He's had a good experience now in Saudi but you know a job like that would definitely interest him if he does want to go back into management."
Robson added: "I think Wrexham at this moment in time should give Phil a bit more time because he has done a great job for them. They've done fantastic to get where they are from where they were to get into the Championship in a short period of time. For me, if they can consolidate in the Championship, even if they finish mid-table, that would be a really good season from where they've come from."
