Gerrard to reject chance to manage MK Dons – report

Mark Scott

Steven Gerrard will turn down the chance to become manager of MK Dons after holding preliminary talks, it has been reported.

Gerrard said he would consider his options after it was announced on Tuesday that he would be leaving Major League Soccer club LA Galaxy.

It was reported by Sky Sports that Gerrard has been offered the MK Dons job and would confirm on Monday whether he will accept it.

Later on Saturday, ESPN FC said that sources close to Gerrard have disclosed that the 36-year-old will turn down the chance to become the Dons’ new boss.

The Sky Bet League One club have been without a permanent manager since Karl Robinson was sacked on October 23.

MK Dons drew 0-0 at Bristol Rovers on Saturday and caretaker manager Richie Barker said after the game that he was looking forward to Tuesday’s league visit of Chesterfield.

“At the moment I expect to be in charge for the next game. I haven’t been told any different,” Barker said.

“I’ll start preparing tonight with a scouting report on Chesterfield for Tuesday and unless I get a phone call before then we will start working on that game on Monday.

“The situation needs to be sorted out, but I have said from day one that it’s not about how much time it takes.

“Most people know we are getting close. The important thing is to get the right man, whoever that might be.

“In terms of what I have been asked to do, it’s just a case of continuing and I’m fine with that.”