Steven Gerrard reveals Aston Villa end game as former Rangers boss says thanks to unexpected ally

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Grateful Steven Gerrard has revealed Gareth Southgate made it his mission to support him before the axe fell at Aston Villa.

The 42-year-old was removed from his post at Villa Park after a dreary run of form and he has now revealed the England manager had his back during a series of phone calls and text messages in his time of need.

The Liverpool legend is taking time out after his Villa misfire coming straight after three-and-a-half years at the helm of Rangers.And Gerrard believes the man who is set to stay as England boss possesses a unique ability to show empathy and believes it's the secret behind his popularity with players.

Speaking to the Players Tribune, he said: "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.