Stevie G’s awkward role in the title run-in

SERIAL winner Steven Gerrard is in the unusual position of being involved with a mid-table team at the business end of the season.

But the former Liverpool skipper and Rangers boss knew he could still play a huge role in the title race.

Not only were his old club Liverpool the visitors to a packed Villa Park last night, but Villa must visit Manchester City on the final day.

Yet Gerrard was at pains to stress in the build-up to Liverpool’s arrival that all his loyalties were with his current employers.

But you quickly sensed this clash against his Merseyside brethren put him in an awkward position.

After an iconic 17-year career as a midfielder in red at Anfield, it was only natural. Gerrard made 710 appearances and captained Liverpool to a memorable Champions League triumph in 2005, as well as winning two FA Cups, three League Cups and the UEFA Cup.

And so, when his Villa side took an early lead from Douglas Luiz in the third minute, Gerrard was noticeably restrained with his celebrations.

Gerrard’s exuberant and “genuine” touchline reactions have been a feature of his reign so far since taking over.

But not here last night. Gerrard (above) continued to prowl the technical area with arms crossed as Luiz stabbed in after having a header saved. Villa’s lead did not last long, though, as Joel Matip swiftly equalised for the Reds in the sixth minute. But Gerrard had the hosts, who had won successive games previously, fired up to take the game to Liverpool.

Fellow former Liverpool players Danny Ings and Philippe Coutinho (above) also went close with efforts that went just over the bar.

The game was in the balance until Sadio Mane headed in to ensure the FA Cup and Champions League finalists keep up the pressure on leaders City.