Gerrard uses Instagram to get message across to Villa players

Steven Gerrard has revealed that creating an Instagram account for his Aston Villa squad is designed to help fast-track his philosophy.

The “Bodymoor1” account has been set up for first-team players, analysts and technical staff.

It is understood to include clips from the 2-0 win over Brighton last weekend, training sessions and motivational messages.

“We use all kinds of different methods to put information across to the players,” the Villa manager said. “We use team meetings, unit meetings, individual meetings and put information outside on the training pitch.

“Instagram is another way, alongside Whatsapp, to put over information and reminders to players. There’s a reason why it’s private.

“We haven’t had the luxury of a pre-season where you have five to six weeks to build your identity. We’re trying to cut as many corners as we can to get the identity and the standards across that we expect.”

Gerrard will face another iconic former Premier League midfielder today when he takes Villa to Crystal Palace. Patrick Vieira, the Palace manager, and Gerrard were fierce competitors with Arsenal and Liverpool respectively.

They are now embarking on relatively new careers in the technical area, with Gerrard admitting they may be judged by higher standards due to their legendary reputations as players.

“I think every manager at this level gets judged really intensely,” Gerrard said. “Of course, we all know the league and the level. There’s certainly very much an awareness that it’s a result business at Premier League level.

“If you’ve had a really strong career as a player, maybe at times that could go against you.”