Gerrard Urged to Use Wrexham or Birmingham as Stepping Stone

Steven Gerrard’s path back into English football management could begin with taking charge at either Wrexham or Birmingham City, according to former Liverpool star Vladimir Smicer. The ex-captain of Liverpool, who boasts managerial experience with Rangers and Aston Villa, has reportedly been advised by Smicer to use one of these clubs as a springboard towards eventually securing the top job at his beloved Liverpool.

Steven Gerrard’s Managerial Ambitions in the Spotlight

Steven Gerrard last managed Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq, leaving the role at the start of the year. Since then, speculation about his next move has been rampant. Smicer, who played alongside Gerrard at Liverpool and understands the unique pressure that comes with leading the Reds, believes returning to English football at a club like Wrexham or Birmingham City could rejuvenate Gerrard’s coaching career.

Such a move, Smicer suggests, would not only allow Gerrard to regain his footing after his international stint but also demonstrate his leadership and tactical skills on English soil. Both Wrexham and Birmingham, while operating outside the Premier League, offer intense, media-rich environments where Gerrard could sharpen his managerial prowess and rebuild his reputation.

Wrexham and Birmingham: Ideal Platforms for Gerrard

For Steven Gerrard, a managerial role at Wrexham or Birmingham would provide a high-visibility platform in the English Football League. Wrexham, recently promoted and enjoying global attention following the club’s Hollywood takeover, would present Gerrard with a unique challenge and a passionate fanbase. Meanwhile, Birmingham City, a Championship club with history and the ambition to return to the Premier League, would offer a different type of challenge—one that could further test Gerrard’s ability to inspire and rebuild squads.

Both clubs would put Gerrard back in the English football spotlight, offering invaluable experience in managing teams with big ambitions.

Can Success at Wrexham or Birmingham Lead to Liverpool?

According to Smicer, excelling at either Wrexham or Birmingham could put Gerrard firmly in the frame for the Liverpool manager’s position in the future. Liverpool fans already revere Gerrard for his legendary playing career, but club owners and decision-makers will be looking for tangible managerial successes before considering him for such a high-profile role.

Demonstrating his ability to guide a club through the rigors of the lower leagues, earn promotion, or maintain Championship stability would greatly strengthen Gerrard’s CV. This approach has precedent—many successful Premier League managers have honed their craft in the Football League before stepping up to elite clubs.

Smicer’s Advice: A Carefully Planned Comeback

Smicer’s recommendation comes at a time when Gerrard’s managerial reputation has taken a hit following a difficult spell at Aston Villa and a mixed tenure abroad. The Czech international believes that a calculated return—rather than waiting for another top-flight opportunity—could be the most effective way for Gerrard to rebuild his standing as a coach.

Gerrard’s previous success at Rangers, where he broke Celtic’s dominance and won the Scottish Premiership title, demonstrated his ability to lead and transform a club. If he can replicate this impact with an ambitious project at Wrexham or Birmingham, his credentials for the Liverpool job will become much harder to ignore.

Opinion: The Right Move for Gerrard’s Career?

In my opinion, Steven Gerrard would be wise to heed Vladimir Smicer’s advice. Both Wrexham and Birmingham offer the right mix of challenge, exposure, and opportunity for Gerrard to showcase his managerial skills in England once again. With their passionate supporters and competitive environments, these clubs could serve as the perfect proving grounds for a coach with ambitions as great as Gerrard’s.

If he succeeds in one of these roles, not only would he restore his reputation, but he could also position himself perfectly for a dream return to Liverpool. For more news on football management and career transitions, visit for more news.