Bristol City Turn Attention to Chris Hughton After Steven Gerrard Rejects Job

23 July 2020 05:25

Bristol City are set to open talks with former Brighton boss Chris Hughton over their managerial vacancy after being turned down by Steven Gerrard.


The Robins parted ways with Lee Johnson - then the longest-serving manager in the Championship - earlier this month following a run of four consecutive defeats which left them 12th in the table, the position they'd go on to finish.


In terms of finding Johnson's successor at Ashton Gate, Sunday Times reporter Duncan Castles noted that the club were keen on bringing in Rangers boss Gerrard, but the former England international was quick to rebuff the Robins' advances.


The Robins parted ways with longtime manager Lee Johnson earlier this month

It's understood Gerrard is keen to oversee what is an exciting project at Ibrox, recently signing a new contract at the club lasting until 2024.


Nevertheless, the club's attentions have turned firmly towards Hughton and Bristol Live understands they'll meet with the 61-year-old in the next 48 hours to discuss the vacancy.


Hughton's interest in the job was known within a few days of Johnson's dismissal almost three weeks ago but the 61-year-old has had to remain patient while the Robins conduct their due diligence process.


Hughton was dismissed as Brighton boss at the end of the 2018/19 season

The current Sky Sports pundit is said to be eager to join Bristol City and is intrigued by the potential of the club having already turned down six jobs - including Birmingham City and West Brom - since he left Brighton in May 2019.


It's unclear whether Hughton is currently the only candidate the club intend to talk to - with the Robins receiving plenty of applications - but it's understood that they're looking for a manager who won't upset the foundations laid by Johnson and structure in place at Ashton Gate.


The project appears similar to the one Hughton stepped into at Brighton midway through the 2014/15 campaign. On that occasion, the 61-year-old took just two-and-a-half seasons to gain promotion with the Seagulls from the second tier and earn their maiden Premier League berth.


Source: 90min