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Steven Gerrard Al-EttifaqGetty

Will Steven Gerrard's Al-Ettifaq ever end their winless run?! Jordan Henderson and Co concede 91st-minute equaliser against Saudi Pro League's worst team as club make decision on beleaguered manager's future

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  • Al-Ettifaq winless in nine games
  • Club patient with Steven Gerrard
  • Boss will look for new recruits
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    On Thursday Gerrard's side conceded a 91st-minute equaliser to draw 1-1 with bottom of the table Al-Hazm. Former Everton winger Demarai Gray gave Al-Ettifaq the lead, but the late goal means they are now winless in nine games. Despite that, Gerrard's job appears to be safe.

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  • WHAT BEN JACOBS SAID

    According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Al-Ettifaq "plan to be patient with Gerrard." Jacobs also explained how the club will attempt to rectify their situation. He said: "Ettifaq will be largely exploring the local market in January and are hoping to bring in two to three players. But they are already planning ahead for three important foreign signings next summer."

  • Jordan Henderson Al-Ettifaq 2023-24Getty Images

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    There was great excitement in Saudi Arabia when Gerrard was appointed Ettifaq manager in July, as there was when the likes of Jordan Henderson, Georginio Wijnaldum, Moussa Dembele and Gray joined him in Dammam. However, the club have drawn five and lost four of their last nine games, including a defeat to Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in the last-16 of the King's Cup.

  • Steven Gerrard Al-Ettifaq 2023-24Getty

    WHAT NEXT FOR GERRARD AND AL-ETTIFAQ?

    Ettifaq are already 25 points behind Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal, so Gerrard's focus will be on turning things around in the second half of the season. He's now got a month-and-half break to regroup and prepare for his side's clash with Al-Khaleej on February 15.