GABBY AGBONLAHOR has backed Steven Gerrard to become Aston Villa boss and use his time in the Midlands as a stepping stone to the Liverpool job in the coming years.

Gerrard was previously linked with a move to Newcastle United but has emerged as a key contender to replace Dean Smith following his sacking as manager on Sunday.

The 41-year-old played down suggestions that he could look to leave Ibrox when quizzed about a potential switch to St James' Park and he is contracted to the champions until the summer of 2024.

But former Villa striker Agbonlahor reckons Gerrard is the perfect candidate to take over from Smith after he was once again touted for a return to the Premier League.

“I’d love him to come,” Agbonlahor told talkSPORT Breakfast. “Watching his passion on the side with Rangers, watching how Rangers play football, I think it would be a great signing for Aston Villa.

“I feel as well for Rangers, what more can he do with them? He’s won the title after such a long time of not winning it and I feel the time is right now to come to Aston Villa.

“That might now be a stepping stone for him before he might go to Liverpool in the future.

“I feel the players will respect Steven Gerrard – one of the best Premier League players ever. I would be buzzing with that signing.

“Steven Gerrard has been named for most of the jobs going, so he has to take one sooner or later.”