Steven Gerrard in talks to become MK Dons manager

Steven Gerrard could be set for his first foray into management after the former Liverpool and England captain held preliminary talks with League One outfit MK Dons.

The 36-year-old has emerged as a contender for the vacant post at stadium:mk after both parties made contact with each other.

Talks are believed to be at an embryonic stage as the Dons look to appoint a permanent successor to Karl Robinson — who was sacked last month after six years at the helm.

Gerrard announced earlier this week that he will not be renewing his contract with Los Angeles Galaxy when it expires and his departure from the Major League Soccer outfit was expected after they were eliminated from the post-season play-offs.

He said at the time that he was considering the next stage of his career, and it appears that could now lead to a first managerial role.

MK Dons have not won a league game since October 1 and sit 21st in League One, with Richie Barker in charge on an interim basis.

Barker will remain in charge for tomorrow’s trip to Bristol Rovers but could soon be replaced by Gerrard, who could follow in the footsteps of Paul Ince, Roberto Di Matteo, and Robinson in cutting their teeth in the Dons hot-seat.

Ince had only a brief stint as player-manager of Macclesfield on his CV before his appointment in 2007, while Di Matteo — who went on to win the Champions League as Chelsea boss — had no prior experience when replacing Ince in 2008.

It is understood the Dons are not close to appointing Gerrard yet having only held preliminary talks with the Champions League winner.

Gerrard’s exit from the Galaxy was confirmed on Tuesday but the player admitted he had been thinking about his next move for some time.

“I am now looking forward to spending time with my family as I consider the next stage of my career,’’ he said after his 18-month deal ended.

“As someone who spent the whole of their career in Liverpool, it has been an incredible experience to come to Los Angeles and play for LA Galaxy.’’

Gerrard scored five goals in 34 appearances but generally his time in California has not been viewed as particularly successful.

He had been linked to a return to Liverpool in a coaching capacity and also a reunion with former manager Brendan Rodgers at Celtic.