Football Transfer News: Steven Gerrard appointed as Aston Villa Manager

According to the latest football transfer news. Aston Villa appointed Steven Gerrard as their manager on a three-and-a-half-year contract after leaving Rangers. The former Liverpool legend and England midfielder replace Dean Smith, who got sacked after five back-to-back defeats.

Gerrard at Rangers won the Scottish Premiership last season. He has been associated with the club since June 2018. Gerrard changed the team and took them to the top of the Scottish Premiership ending Celtic's reign. He leaves with the club top and as they prepare for the League Cup semi-final against Hibernian on Sunday week.

The latest football transfer news stated that Aston Villa made Gerrard their top target as they try to escape from 16th place. Sitting just two points above the relegation zone, after finishing 11th last season. Gerrard's first game will be at home to Brighton a week on Saturday.

Steven Gerrard after joining Aston Villa

Gerrard said: "Aston Villa is a club with a rich history and tradition in English football. And I am immensely proud to become its new head coach.

"In my conversations with Nassef, Wes, and the rest of the Board, it was apparent how ambitious their plans are for the club. And I am looking forward to helping them achieve their aims.

"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everybody associated with Glasgow Rangers for allowing me 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 would like to wish the players, staff, and supporters the very best for the future."

Villa CEO Christian Purslow on Gerrard

The Liverpool legend had dinner with Villa chief executive Christian Purslow in London on Wednesday night.

Purslow said: "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 an 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."

Ranger's expressing their gratitude

Rangers said that the club "flourished" under Gerrard's management. He helped build an "outstanding, highly competitive playing squad which is capable of both winning and entertaining on all fronts".

Chairman Douglas Park said: "I would firstly like to put on record my thanks to Steven for his outstanding efforts over the last three-and-a-half years at Rangers.

"He has provided us all with some unforgettable moments. Not least his delivery of the Scottish Premiership title back to Ibrox last season having not lost a match in the entire league campaign.

"In European competition, he has restored the good name and credibility of our club on the continent. And leaves us in a very healthy position on the pitch."

Steven Gerrard on Instagram

Gerrard: "I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone associated with Glasgow Rangers, especially the fans. For the love and support you've all shown me during my time in Scotland,".

"Winning '55' will always hold a special place in my heart - each and every one of you played a part in that and, believe me, there will be many more to come.

"I hope in time you can understand and accept my decision to move on. But I honestly fell in love with the club and will always follow the team.

"Once a Ranger, always a Ranger #55."