FA offer Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard fast track into coaching to help struggling England team
Three Lions bosses have contacted the two former internationals to do their badges in the MLS close season
THE FA have offered Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard a fast track into coaching.
SunSport understands England bosses have contacted both players and invited them to begin their badges during the MLS close season this winter.
Until now, the FA has not offered high-profile pros a quicker route to achieve their coaching qualifications, which can take up to four years.
But they are willing to break that rule in return for Gerrard, 36, and 38- year-old Lamps mentoring England’s young stars.
Both play in the US and are keen to start their coaching education — and the FA have promised they could complete it in just two years.
Wembley top brass are desperate to cover every angle to improve England performances, which have slumped to an all-time low.
Interim boss Gareth Southgate has approved the approach and welcomes the prospect of Gerro and Lamps working with the likes of Eric Dier, Dele Alli and John Stones.
Lampard is understood to have already accepted the invitation, while Gerro will decide whether to quit LA Galaxy at the end of this season before committing.
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Both Galaxy and Lamps’ New York City have qualified for the MLS play-offs but they expect to be back in the UK by the end of next month.
Former England left- back Ashley Cole is also understood to have been approached about the scheme.
Other ex-pros such as Thierry Henry and David Ginola have been forced to do their badges with other Home Nation associations in Northern Ireland and Wales because the FA refused to fast track them.