Steven Gerrard reunited with Michael Beale as ex-Sunderland and Rangers boss appointed his Al-Ettifaq assistant

MICHAEL BEALE is set for to be reunited with Steven Gerrard after being appointed Al-Ettifaq’s new assistant manager

Ex-Rangers boss Beale has been out of work since being sacked by Sunderland in February.

The Sun

Michael Beale is set to reunite with Steven Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq[/caption]

Meanwhile Gerrard is under pressure at Al-Ettifaq following a horror start to the season.

The Liverpool legend has kept his £15million-a-year job but has made changes to his backroom staff.

Assistant manager Dean Holden and sporting director Mark Allen both left by mutual consent.

And Beale – who worked with Gerrard in Scotland – has now joined to replace Holden.

The 44-year-old was in charge for just 12 matches at Sunderland before being sacked in February.

Al-Ettifaq sit 12th out of 18 in the Saudi Pro League, losing HALF of their ten games this season.

The ex-England captain held crisis talks with Al-Ettifaq’s owners in November – but vowed to fight for his job.

He said: “On the back of recent results in my position you are always aware of disappointment from fans, I have to take that responsibility on my shoulders.

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“That is what I will do and continue to fight and work to improve the recent results.

“I don’t react, change or get overconcerned about social media or anyone on the outside of Ettifaq’s opinion, my priority is this club.

“I listen to the people within and continue to support my players.

“I meet Mr Hatim (head of football Hatim Al Misehal) after every game and we talk football, where it is a win, loss or draw, we have fantastic support, myself, the staff and the players from the management team.”