Steven Gerrard was among the frontrunners for the Newcastle United job this time last year. Now, the Liverpool legend must rebuild his managerial reputation following a bruising spell at Aston Villa.
Gerrard was sacked late on Thursday night after his side's defeat at Fulham, a result which leaves the club sat outside the relegation zone on goals scored alone. Villa have won just twice so far this season, and face a trip to St James' Park on October 29.
Newcastle's owners were patient in their hunt for a manager, with a month passing from the takeover until Eddie Howe's appointment was finally confirmed. Gerrard was regularly quizzed on the links with the Magpies hotseat, but dismissed speculation while stressing his respect for then-head coach Steve Bruce.
