Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl have both given their take on Aston Villa’s decision to axe Steven Gerrard, following Thursday night’s disappointing defeat to Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Gerrard has watched his side lose six of their 11 Premier League matches this season, winning only twice. The atmosphere surrounding Villa and Gerrard had become somewhat toxic, and now, Villa have decided to sack Gerrard.
The decision has been met with praise by Villa supporters – but now, the board have got to make a big decision. Who they do bring in as Gerrard’s replacement? TalkSPORT claim that Brentford manager Thomas Frank is being considered.
A decision is yet to be made and one is unlikely to come until next week. Asked about Gerrard’s sacking, both Howe and Hasenhuttl gave their verdict. The overriding feeling being, that it is not nice to see a fellow manager lose his job.
Howe said, as per the Chronicle: “Very disappointed for Steve, he’s a very good manager. It goes to show the short-term nature. A very difficult job, very volatile at times, I have no doubt over his quality and I’m sure he’ll be back soon.”
Hasenhuttl said, as per Football Daily: “What should I tell you? It’s a pity when a manager loses his job. But when the club feel they need to do it for a long-term, better solution, then they should sack him, like they did with Dean Smith.”
Howe and Hasenhuttl give their take on Villa decision to axe Gerrard
Ultimately, Villa’s board had little choice following the 3-0 loss to Fulham. There was little they could have done. Villa’s fans were calling for his head and it had gone past the point of believing that a turnaround in form was possible.
Villa have decided to make a decision before it had become too late, and relegation was a real possibility. Two straight losses, to Chelsea and Fulham, has hurt. A lack of creation, a lack of plan B, a lack of players really playing for Gerrard.
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