So, it’s official. Aston Villa have announced the appointment of Steven Gerrard as Dean Smith’s replacement, after a deal was struck with Rangers.
Unsurprisingly, as the 41-year-old arrives at Villa Park, the Aston Villa players have heard the news.
What’s the story?
Well, thanks to the Daily Mail, we have been given some insight as to how those inside Aston Villa’s dressing room view Gerrard.
The Daily Mail believe Gerrard’s presence has been met with widespread excitement among the Villans squad.
It is said that the majority of players were sad to see Smith go, although they are optimistic about the future under Gerrard.
Additionally, the Daily Mail add that senior figures at Aston Villa are aware of the need to make an immediate impression on the ex-Liverpool man.
Huge task for Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa
We believe the Englishman will do well in the Midlands, although that doesn’t mean the task at hand will be an easy one.
Gerrard has only been in management since 2018, and with all due respect to the Scottish Premiership, it is not as challenging as the Premier League.
In England’s top-flight, Gerrard will have plenty more clubs to worry about than just Celtic, and expectations are clearly high at Villa Park after Smith was swiftly axed.
It’s an attractive role, where there is money to spend and quality players already at Villa Park, such as Gerrard’s old teammate Danny Ings.
Nevertheless, it will be very interesting to see how the Liverpool-born boss fares at Aston Villa.
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