Steven Gerrard and Fashion Sakala Rangers love-in as pair reunited in Saudi

Fashion Sakala and Steven Gerrard showed their appreciation for each other as their sides faced off in the Saudi Pro League.

The Zambian was signed for Rangers by the Liverpool and England legend and ended up outlasting him, spending two years at Ibrox. Gerrard left for Aston Villa just a few months after signing the player but by the time the 26-year-old moved out to the Middle East in the summer of this year, his former boss was already out there.

Both would no doubt have checked their calendar for when they would come up against each other and that happened on Saturday when Al-Fayha, where Sakala now plys his trade, hosted Al-Ettifaq, managed by Gerrard. And neither was able to come out on top with a 0-0 draw continuing the former Gers boss’ poor run with his new side.

The forward did threaten to ruin his old boss’ day as he hit the post before also having an effort cleared off the line by covering ex-Celtic defender Jack Hendry.

Despite their brief time together in Glasgow, both men clearly have a lot of time and respect for each other.

Gerrard said post-match: “You could see in the game against us that he was a threat and I’m glad he never scored because I wouldn’t have heard the end of it! But I love Fashion Sakala, he’s a special boy, and he should never change.

“Fashion Sakala is one of the nicest, most humble guys I have ever met, never mind coached. He’s a wonderful boy – he’s happy, he’s bright, he wants to learn every day, and he appreciates being a professional footballer. He was a joy to coach and work with and I’m so happy that he is doing well here.”

Sakala said: “It’s always special to see the man who trusted me playing for Rangers. I had a good time with him, and it was nice to see him.

“It’s just unlucky that I didn’t score – I tried, I really wanted to score! It’s just unfortunate. It’s always a pleasure to meet such legends in the game and getting good advice from him is always a pleasure.”