Steven Gerrard is set to pull off another raid on Liverpool, with academy coach Jonathan Robinson set to join Al-Ettifaq.
Gerrard was appointed manager of the Saudi Pro League side, quickly bringing in Reds captain Jordan Henderson and former star Georginio Wijnaldum. He also poached analyst Ray Shearwood, while former Liverpool coaches Tommy Culshaw and Jordan Milsom are also on his staff. The Ettifaq boss is now pushing ahead with his Liverpool-tinged takeover of the Saudi side, with his team struggling for results. Gerrard’s men are seventh in the Saudi Pro League table and are 13 points adrift of leaders Al-Hilal.
Jordan Henderson embarrassed by ex-Liverpool teammate as Saudi humiliation hits home
How to buy Rainbow Laces as Stonewall issue rallying cry for 10-year anniversary The 31-year-old has worked in Liverpool’s academy for the past nine years since arriving from Swansea City. He has held a number of roles in that time, including as coach of the club’s Under-16s side and having a spell as a first-team analyst.
Most recently, he served as Barry Lewtas’ assistant with the Under-21s, who are eighth in PL2 Division 1. Robinson announced his departure on social media, posting a series of photos from his time on Merseyside.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Who has been Liverpool’s player of the season? Comment below. Liverpool coach Jonathan Robinson is set to join Al-Ettifaq Robinson’s arrival will be a much-needed boost for Gerrard, who was left humiliated on Saturday. Just 610 fans turned up to watch Ettifaq’s goalless draw with Al-Feiha at the King Salman Sport City Stadium.
To make matters even worse, star attacker Mohammed Al Kuwaykibi absconded from the game. The Saudi international claimed he was too tired to play, but Gerrard was left furious with the 28-year-old. Buy your Rainbow Laces “He got in his car and went home without permission. He was analysed by the doctor, the doctor said he was good to train but he got in his car and said he was tired and went home. I am still looking for reasons and answers as to why he wasn’t here to help us today,” he said.
The Liverpool legend is doubling down though, with This Is Anfield reporting he is set to appoint Robinson to his coaching staff. Robinson said his goodbyes to the Reds last week, with his new appointment expected shortly.
Liverpool coach Jonathan Robinson is set to join Al-Ettifaq ( Image: Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
As a caption, he wrote: “Nine years of special people, memories that will last a lifetime and a club like no other… Thank you to all the players, staff and everyone associated with the club for everything! YNWA.”
Get your special pair of Glitter Edition Rainbow Laces to mark the 10-year anniversary here. Mirror readers get 20% off with code MIRROR20 (subject to availability).
