Wolverhampton Wanderers have confirmed the appointment of Rob Edwards as their new head coach, as the struggling Premier League club seeks a dramatic turnaround in fortunes.
A Club in Crisis
The Midlands outfit found themselves forced into action after a disastrous start to the season under previous manager Vitor Pereira, who was sacked recently following their dismal opening to the campaign. The club currently prop up the Premier League table, yet to win a single match this season.
Their precarious position was further highlighted by a 3-0 loss away at Chelsea just before the international break, leaving them rooted in the bottom three alongside West Ham and Nottingham Forest. A concerning eight points separate Wolves from safety, currently represented by 17th-placed Burnley.
Edwards' first challenge will be a crucial home clash against Crystal Palace on Saturday 22nd November, a match that already carries significant weight for the club's survival prospects.
Edwards' Return to Molineux
Rob Edwards is no stranger to Molineux, having previously played for and coached at Wolves. This existing relationship with the club was likely a key factor in his appointment, as the board seeks a figure who understands the club's culture during this critical period.
His managerial career has seen him take the helm of England U16s, Forest Green Rovers, Watford, and Luton Town before his most recent role at Middlesbrough. Boro turned to Edwards in the summer as a replacement for Michael Carrick, and he has overseen an eye-catching start to the season, with the team currently sat in 2nd place in the Championship behind Frank Lampard's Coventry City.
Gerrard Looms as Potential Successor
Edwards' move to the Premier League has created a managerial vacancy at Middlesbrough, and according to reports from the Scottish Sun, former Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard is being 'considered' by the Boro hierarchy.
The 45-year-old has been out of management since January after a stint with Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq. Gerrard's previous managerial experience includes a successful spell at Rangers, where he guided the club to the Scottish Premiership title, breaking Celtic's dominance.
His time in England with Aston Villa lasted just 11 months, during which he won 32.5% of matches before being dismissed. The potential move to Middlesbrough would represent Gerrard's first foray into Championship management and an opportunity to rebuild his reputation in English football.
Whoever takes the reins at Middlesbrough will inherit a squad performing well at second-tier level, making the position an attractive proposition for any manager seeking a return to the dugout.
