Soccer

Steven Gerrard unveiled by Aston Villa as new head coach

The former Liverpool captain leaves Rangers to replace Dean Smith at Villa Park

Steven Gerrard has been unveiled as the new Aston Villa head coach. Photograph: Neville Williams/Aston Villa FC via Getty Images

Thu Nov 11 2021 - 10:16

Aston Villa have confirmed the appointment of Steven Gerrard as their new head coach.

The former Liverpool midfielder has left his role as Rangers manager to replace Dean Smith, who was sacked last weekend after a run of five successive defeats.

Gerrard guided Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title last season, finishing the campaign undefeated in the league.

“The board of Aston Villa are delighted to appoint Steven as our new head coach,” said Villa chief executive Christian Purslow on avfc.co.uk.

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“Since moving into coaching after his illustrious playing career, Steven began by managing and developing top young players in the Liverpool FC academy which is experience we value highly at Aston Villa.

“It has been very clear in our discussions with him that Steven’s coaching ambitions, philosophy and values entirely match those of Aston Villa.

“We are excited he has agreed to lead us in the next phase of our ambitious plans as we look to build on the progress made since Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens took over the club in 2018.”

Aston VillaSteven Gerrard