ASTON Villa have announced Steven Gerrard as their new head coach less than a week after Dean Smith was sacked following a 1-0 defeat at St Mary’s.

Adam Armstrong’s first-time strike from the edge of the area sealed the fate of the Villa boss, who has lost five consecutive games in the Premier League.

And the Midlands side have acted swiftly to replace him with former Liverpool captain and Champions League-winner Gerrard.

The 41-year-old had been managing Rangers in the Scottish Premiership since 2018, guiding them to a title via an unbeaten campaign last season.

Following his appointment, 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 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.”