Steven has gone along for the pride
STEVEN GERRARD has spoken of his pride at landing the Aston Villa job after his shock departure from Rangers.
The former Ibrox gaffer has signed a three-and-ahalf-year deal at the Midlands giants and takes his No.2 Gary McAllister with him, who had a previous spell at Villa as assistant to Gerard Houllier.
Gerrard will now be in the dugout for Premier League strugglers Villa’s home game against Brighton on November 20.
The 41-year-old said: “Aston Villa is a club with a rich history and tradition and I am immensely proud to become its new head coach.
“In my conversations with Nassef (Sawiris), Wes (Edens) and the rest of the board, it was apparent how ambitious their plans are.
“I‘d like to express my sincere gratitude to everybody associated with Glasgow Rangers for giving me the opportunity to manage such an iconic football club. Helping them secure a record-breaking 55th league title will always hold a special place in my heart. I wish the players, staff and supporters the very best for the future.”
Villa chief Christian Purslow was key in the appointment as he was managing director at Liverpool when Gerrard was captain.
Purslow said: “The board of Aston Villa are delighted to appoint Steven as our new head coach.
“Since moving into coaching, Steven began by managing and developing top young players in the Liverpool FC Academy which is experience we value highly at Aston Villa.
“He then took the brave decision to test himself in the intense environment of the Scottish Old Firm. His achievement in winning the Premiership title really caught our eye as did his experience in Europe.
“It has been very clear in our discussions that Steven’s ambitions, philosophy and values match those of Aston Villa.
“We are excited he has agreed to lead us in the next phase of our plans.”