Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has enlisted the services of an old friend in Saudi Arabia.

The Al-Ettifaq manager is trying to improve the academy at the Saudi Pro League club.

Now he has brought in former Rangers sporting director Mark Allen.

PerThe Mail, Allen will be the director of football development at Al Ettifaq, having last worked at Swansea City.

Allen was the sporting director for the Welsh club, but only lasted eight months in the role.

Gerrard's side find themselves in sixth place on the table after 12 games, a full 11 points behind leaders Al-Hilal.