LA Galaxy midfielder Gerrard 'open' to English FA role

Steven Gerrard has admitted that he would be happy to take a role with the Football Association when he decides to end his illustrious playing career.

The former Liverpool stalwart has been linked with a return to his beloved Anfield in a coaching role and has spent time training at the club recently in the company of Jurgen Klopp.

But the LA Galaxy midfielder told Sky Sports that he would also be prepared to work with the FA, having won 114 caps for England over a 14-year international career. 

He said: "I don't think I am ready for management at the moment. I am doing my qualifications and I'm trying to gain as much experience as possible. I've got dreams and aspirations of taking the plunge one day but I have to see and work out for myself what role is going to suit me, what role do I think I am going to be able to contribute at and also what roles are going to be offered. 

"I don't want to shut any doors and I don't want to make any rash decisions because where I sit now, I still feel healthy, I still feel fit. I still feel like I could play at most levels of the game. So right now, I'm not ready to retire.

He said: "I don't think I am ready for management at the moment. I am doing my qualifications and I'm trying to gain as much experience as possible. I've got dreams and aspirations of taking the plunge one day but I have to see and work out for myself what role is going to suit me, what role do I think I am going to be able to contribute at and also what roles are going to be offered. 

"I don't want to shut any doors and I don't want to make any rash decisions because where I sit now, I still feel healthy, I still feel fit. I still feel like I could play at most levels of the game. So right now, I'm not ready to retire.

He said: "I enjoyed and loved working with Jurgen Klopp... he made me feel very welcome. He spoke to me about certain tactics that he uses and why he does it. I had a couple of coffees with him away from training, which helped to build a relationship, and I gained a great deal of experience so I am very grateful to him for that."

Meanwhile, Ashley Cole has accepted an offer to join Gerrard in Los Angeles. The left-back, also 35, canceled his contract with Roma two days ago and Gerrard wants the deal done.

He said: "I sent him a text saying I heard it's close. I hope we get it over the line. Obviously we will welcome him with open arms because he will certainly make us a better team. He is a top player."