Gerrard sees sands of time running out on Saudi stay

The legendary former player's star power is keeping him in his job at Al-Ettifaq aftera lengthy winless run

- John Duerden

After a fine start in Saudi Arabia, Steven Gerrard is in trouble at Al-Ettifaq. The former Liverpool captain hit the ground running in the east of the country with five wins from the first seven games in the Saudi Pro League, but the Dammam club have not won in their last eight and, amid a sixweek Asian Cup-induced break, the pressure is on.

Normally in Saudi Arabia, it would already be over. There have been 13 coaching changes in the 18-team league this season. Clubs can be, and usually are, brutal, with the glow of success lasting about as long as a Saudi winter. Nuno Espírito Santo was dismissed in November, just five months after leading Al-Ittihad to an impressive first title since 2009, while two of Gerrard's former teammates have fared even worse - Igor Biscan took the Al-Shabab job in mid-October and is now home while Robbie Fowler was fired in October after four months at Al-Qadsiah despite not losing a game.

Ettifaq have gone through more than 30 changes this century alone. History is, therefore, against Gerrard, and ultimately what has saved him is his status as a legendary former player. Even in the region itself few of the many coaching comings and goings generate many column inches, but Gerrard's presence ensures international attention and, as such, a little more patience.