Steven Gerrard has opened up on his final days as Aston Villa manager.

The ex-Rangers boss has revealed how England No.1 Gareth Southgate had his back as his time at Villa Park came to an end.

The Liverpool legend moved to the Premier League outfit last October. 

The Englishman opted to make the move just a matter of months after he guided the Ibrox club to their 55th league title, and ended Celtic's ten-in-a-row hopes.

However, while it seemed like the right step in his managerial career, things didn't work out at Villa as they did north of the border for Gerrard.

He was sacked earlier this season after just 11-months in charge.

Now, Gerrard has opened up on what was a tough period for him, and how Southgate became an unexpected friendly face.

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He told the Players' Tribune: "What people need to know which probably goes unnoticed. In the last month or so, when I was having a tough time as the Aston Villa manager he was on the phone, he was sending messages.

"He wanted to be a support to me and he didn't have to do that with a World Cup on the horizon. He goes out his way to lend a hand in support. I think that shows the type of man and leader he is."

Glasgow Times:

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