Steven Gerrard 'resigns' as Al Ettifaq boss after SOS to Rangers ally fails amid Liverpool icon's Saudi nightmare

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Under-fire Steven Gerrard has reportedly resigned as Al-Ettifaq boss amid a disastours season at the club.

The former Aston Villa and Rangers boss has been facing mounting pressure in the Saudi Pro League with the club languishing in 12th spot in the table - just five points away from the relegation zone after Saturday's draw with struggling Al-Wehda. The club higher-ups took action to assist the Liverpool legend last November after a disappointing start to the season with No. 2 Dean Holden with former Ibrox sporting director Mark Allen shown the door and ex-Light Blues' boss Michael Beale jetting out to the Middle East to work as Gerrard's assistant once again.

But results have not improved and Saudi newspaper Al-Youm report that Gerrard has "requested to leave" the club due to "poor performances" with Ettifaq now "studying his decision" as they weigh up potential successors. It is claimed that Gerrard had initially wanted to leave last summer but was convinced to stay by Ettifaq higher-ups.

It is noted that a request for Gerrard's exit has now been submitted to the Financial Sustainability Committee for the Pro League with a compensation package yet to be rubber-stamped. During what could be his final press conference, frustrated Gerrard said: "I am not satisfied with the players' performance and level.

"I see the draw as losing two important points. I take responsibility for the result of the match, including missed opportunities and the drop in performance.

"The management of Ettifaq club has provided everything the team needs in terms of support and transfers. Injuries and the absence of key players have negatively affected performance."

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