Steven Gerrard leaves role at Rangers to join Aston Villa

Steven Gerrard is the new Aston Villa manager following his appointment to replace Dean Smith. (Photo credit: Sky Sports)

Aston Villa have appointed former Liverpool and England midfielder Steven Gerrard as their head coach following the sacking of Dean Smith, the club can confirm.

Steven Gerrard leaves his position as the Scottish champions, Rangers manager and has signed on a three and half year deal at Villa Park with the herculean task of getting them out of the hole and pushing for a strong finish top on his cards.

Aston Villa fired Smith after going five games without a point, leaving them 17^th on the log and playing style looking dry and uneventful. With the amount of investments made over the summer, Villa expect stronger showings and would hope there’s a bounce after the appointment of Gerrard.

"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," Gerrard said after his appointment was made official.

"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 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 would like to wish the players, staff and supporters the very best for the future."

Gerrard’s first game is against Brighton at Villa Park, a game that can become the beginning of the rise of Villa following a torrid start to the league season.