Taylor the leading candidate for Liverpool job

Former Manchester City boss Gareth Taylor is the leading candidate to take over as Liverpool manager in the Women's Super League.

Without a manager since sacking Matt Beard in February, the Reds have been searching for a replacement.

Taylor, 52, took over at City in May 2020 and led them to two major honours but missed out on the WSL title in 2024 on goal difference behind Chelsea.

He was sacked just five days before the Women's League Cup final in March this year with City 12 points adrift of Chelsea in the WSL.

In four full seasons under Taylor, City did not finish outside the WSL's top four.

He was a divisive figure at the club with several players speaking out publicly about their experiences during his time in charge.

England goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck described her relationship with Taylor as "fractured" while Chloe Kelly's chaotic loan exit in January raised eyebrows further.

Two-time WSL winners Liverpool, who finished the 2024-25 season in seventh place, are seeking consistency as they attempt to climb back up the table and challenge England's elite on a regular basis.

Former assistant Amber Whiteley has been in interim charge of the team since Beard's departure and she was keen to take over the role full-time.

However, it is understood Taylor is the leading candidate and Liverpool have been in discussions with him to reach personal terms.