Lampardor Gerrard for England Boss? FA Considering Legends via U21s
Former England internationals Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard may have a chance to succeed Gareth Southgate as the Three Lions' manager in the future. Southgate, who was appointed as the national team's boss through the Under-21 set-up, led England to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020, and eventually suffered a quarter-final defeat to France in the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
However, when the time comes for the former England center-back to step down, The Telegraph has identified a potential opportunity for Lampard or Gerrard to follow in Southgate's footsteps before his appointment in 2016. This could mean that the two former midfielders, who have both enjoyed successful managerial stints in recent times, may have the chance to take on one of the most coveted jobs in football management. Whether they will be able to replicate the success of their predecessor remains to be seen, but the pathway has been laid out for them to take on this exciting challenge in the future.
Lee Carsley, who is currently in charge of England's U21 team, is contemplating his future after the upcoming European Championships. If Carsley decides to step down, the Football Association may approach Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard to take over the U21 squad. The Telegraph reports that Scott Parker, recently dismissed as Club Brugge manager, could also be a contender for the job.
Although Lampard, Gerrard, and Parker were unsuccessful in their previous club positions, their international experience and experience managing in Europe may be taken into account. Lampard was previously offered the role following his departure from Chelsea in 2021, but declined, leading to Carsley's appointment.
Assuming any of these three managers were to take the U21 job, they would be in the running for the senior England managerial position when Gareth Southgate decides to step down.