Liverpool legend Graeme Souness has conceded that Steven Gerrard may have to "drop down" in order to land his next managerial role after he was axed as Aston Villa manager.
Fulham's 3-0 win over Gerrard's side proved to be the final straw for the former midfielder in his first managerial job in the Premier League after six defeats in 11 games. His departure left Villa in a precarious position as they languished outside the bottom three.
His time at Villa Park came to an end just a matter of weeks shy of his year anniversary in the Midlands. But the new era under caretaker boss Aaron Danks got off to a blistering start, Ollie Watkins ended his goal drought in their 4-0 win over Brentford, with Danny Ings scoring twice.
READ MORE: Liverpool have moved on from signing forgotten Mohamed Salah replacement
READ MORE: Jurgen Klopp faces Jordan Henderson decision as Liverpool set to rip up midfield
The former Liverpool midfielder became the latest managerial casualty in light of their defeat at Craven Cottage. Souness believes it is unlikely he will return to the English top flight following his dismissal.
He told talkSPORT : "I don't think so [he goes back into a big job], he'll have to drop down a league, I think Championship clubs would still want him.
"Why not? [Manage in the Championship], you go down there, do a good job, get them up, do well and then get a bigger one. I don't see any big clubs in the Premier League being interested, it's an almighty blow what's happened to him.
"This is the first time he's had negativity in his football career, it happened to me when I was 19, I thought I was the bees knees at Tottenham, they sold me to Middlesbrough and it made me more determined.
"Steven Gerrard has showed a steely determination throughout his career and he'll show it again this time. Whether he comes back or not, I'd imagine financially it's not a necessity but his pride will be sorely dented.
Drawing a comparison to ex-Manchester United midfielder, Roy Keane, the Scot added that soon the Champions League winner's reputation will no longer be a factor in his employability.
He said: "It's a bit like Roy Keane, he was a fabulous player, would what Roy Keane done as a player count when he goes for a coach/manager anywhere? I think that's the way the game has evolved, it's been a sore weekend for Steven Gerrard."
READ NEXT
-
Liverpool analysis - Darwin Nunez highlights big problem as Harvey Elliott left alone
-
Curtis Jones explains unusual Liverpool injury absence after return with 'point to prove'
-
Liverpool miss out on another target as rare Premier League shortcoming continues
-
Jurgen Klopp makes 'massive change' Liverpool admission after Nottingham Forest defeat
-
What Spurs chiefs 'told summer transfer targets about Liverpool' in bid to complete deals
