Steven Gerrard could be set for his first foray into management after the former Liverpool and England captain held preliminary talks with a League One outfit.
Press Association Sport understands the 36-year-old has emerged as a contender for the vacant post at MK Dons after both parties made contact with each other.
Talks are believed to be at an embryonic stage as the Dons look to appoint a permanent successor to Karl Robinson – who was sacked last month after six years at the helm.
Gerrard announced earlier this week that he will not be renewing his contract with Los Angeles Galaxy when it expires and his departure from the Major League Soccer outfit was expected after they were eliminated from the post-season play-offs.
He said at the time that he was considering the next stage of his career, and it appears that could now lead to a first managerial role.
MK Dons have not won a league game since October 1 and sit 21st in League One, with Richie Barker in charge on an interim basis.
Barker will remain in charge for Saturday’s trip to Bristol Rovers but could soon be replaced by Gerrard, who could follow in the footsteps of Paul Ince, Roberto Di Matteo and Robinson in cutting their teeth in the Dons hot-seat.
Gerrard’s exit from the Galaxy was confirmed by the club on Tuesday but the player admitted he had been thinking about his next move for some time already.
”I am now looking forward to spending time with my family as I consider the next stage of my career,” he said after his 18-month deal ended.
Gerrard scored five goals in 34 appearances but generally his time in California has not been viewed as particularly successful.
He had been linked to a return to Liverpool in a coaching capacity and also a reunion with former manager Brendan Rodgers at Celtic.
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