Philippe Clement is under pressure right now but a former Rangers boss is feeling similar heat elsewhere.
Rumours Steven Gerrard was on the verge of being sacked by Al-Ettifaq spread even before yesterday’s game against Al Qadsiah.
That was after a Saudi King’s Cup defeat at the hands of a second division team, the fifth of a five game winless run at that point.
But it has now been made six after a 2-0 defeat on league business which leaves them 11th in the Pro League with 11 points from nine games, four points above the drop zone.
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Ex Rangers boss Gerrard booed by Al-Ettifaq fans
He may be one of the highest profile managers working in the Saudi Pro League but that doesn’t seem to be buying Gerrard any time with his club’s fans.
He was mercilessly booed and jeered as he walked across the pitch following the defeat to Al Qadsiah.
The 44-year-old appeared to gesture to his players to approach the supporters as the loud boos continued and he joined them to clap the support regardless.
It is being reported by Saudi outlet Al-Youm that the club are still considering a change as they look to improve their fortunes.
Gerrard appeared to be positive about his team’s performance despite the result but took responsibility for the goals conceded after being forced to pitch a young defender in.
He said after the match: “I spoke to the players. If we had performed like this before, we would not have put ourselves in this embarrassing situation, but I bear the responsibility.
“We conceded the first goal from a set piece. Previously, we used to defend better from set pieces. The second goal was scored by a young player, and he made the same mistake he made against Al-Fayha. The player is young, and I bear responsibility for the second goal.
“I bear full responsibility for using a young player in defence, as he has little experience. His recruitment was to prepare him for development and the future, and using him was not appropriate, but due to injuries, we were put in this position.”
Gerrard defiant under Al-Ettifaq sack claims
As the rumour mill went into overdrive during the week, Gerrard remained calm and insisted he was blocking out the noise.
He said he will only listen to club chiefs, who he did meet with after the cup defeat but insisted that was normal practice.
The former Rangers boss 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.
“That is what I will do and continue to fight and work to improve the recent results.
“I don’t react, change or get over-concerned 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.
“We did meet yesterday but we meet after every single game.”
