Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard has heaped praise on Ashley Young after his impact in the 2-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion.
Gerrard took charge of his first game as Villa boss on Saturday after leaving Rangers to replace Dean Smith.
It looked like being a frustrating day at the office as Villa entered the final 10 minutes drawing 0-0.
Villa did claim the win though as Ollie Watkins and Tyrone Mings struck late on to secure a 2-0 victory.
Watkins’ goal came about after fine work from substitute Young, who made a real impact.
Young picked the ball up just outside his own box before turning away from one defender and driving towards the halfway line.
Young then picked out Watkins, who went on a great run to score, sending Villa Park wild.
He may be 36 and winding down his career, but Young can still play a huge role at Villa this season.
Gerrard played with Young during their time in the English national team, and Gerrard even branded him ‘very dangerous’ and ‘skilful’ back in 2012.
Young has changed a lot since then, but Gerrard remains a huge fan.
Speaking to The Birmingham Mail, Gerrard suggested that, since he took the job, Young has been ‘absolutely outstanding’.
Gerrard believes Young’s leadership and standard-setting has been vital for Villa in training, whilst his versatility is key in matches.
“I know Ashley extremely well and he’s been absolutely outstanding since we walked through the door,” said Gerrard. “Not just on the training pitch but his leadership and standard-setting.”
“We see players like him as an outer-layer of the staff, if you like, who really help us when we need to lean on him. He was ready today and the big thing about Ash is he can play right-back, left-back, he can play as an eight, a 10 or wide. That’s what good players allow you to do as a manager, allow you to play in different ways,” he added.
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