According to Graeme Bailey, Leeds United have held talks with Steven Gerrard about the idea of becoming their new manager.
This could be an exciting appointment for a number of reasons. After all, Gerrard is a bright young manager who did an incredible job with Rangers a few years ago and he’s one of the most respected figures within the game.
However, perhaps the most interesting aspect of this appointment would be the effect it could have on Leeds’ rivalry with Manchester United.
Indeed, as the ultimate Liverpool legend, Gerrard is one of the most-detested figures in modern history amongst Manchester United fans, and it’s fair to say that Gerrard isn’t a fan of the Red Devils either. In fact, he’s gone as far as to say he loathes the club.
“I had been taught to loathe Manchester United,” Gerrard once said.
“It was drilled into our brains, hardening our hearts and conditioning our souls as Liverpool fans.
“It was tattooed into the head of every Liverpool fan. We had never liked each other, as clubs or cities, but the animosity had become deeper.
“For more than 26 years, I’d always felt compelled to show fire towards them. They were the enemy.
“Their shirt is the only one I won’t allow in my house. I have a big collection of shirts I’ve swapped with other players — but not one from United.”
The Leeds vs Man United rivalry has a storied history, but it has felt one-sided in recent years as United’s focus has been more on their derbies against Liverpool and Manchester City. However, the addition of Gerrard to the mix could reignite the fire and bring new element to the fixture – once again making it one of the fiercest games in English football.
Now, that isn’t to say that this game isn’t one of the biggest in the Premier League already, but the fact that their meeting at Old Trafford last week wasn’t even televised is telling of the fact it’s lost a bit of it’s mystique.
While the appointment of Gerrard would undoubtedly please Leeds fans, it would likely ruffle some feathers among Man United supporters. Gerrard’s successful playing career at Liverpool, coupled with his outspoken dislike of United, could make him a controversial figure in the eyes of the Old Trafford faithful. In turn, adding a new chapter to this long and storied rivalry with Leeds.
It remains to be seen if Gerrard is appointed, but if he is, that first game against Manchester United could be an absolute firecracker.
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