New Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard used his first press conference to dismiss the idea the club is a stepping stone on his journey back to Liverpool.
In previous years, the former Liverpool and England skipper has made no secret of his desire to return one day to Anfield as manager and but has now made clear that his sole focus in on Villa, who sacked Dean Smith after five straight defeats.
“It’s very unfair to describe this as stepping stone, you will never hear me say that,” said Gerrard.
“I am really honoured and proud to be here. I’m all-in and I will give this job all it needs to be successful.
“I am 100 per cent committed and so are my staff. There is nothing wrong with having dreams and aspirations.
“Liverpool have a world-class coach in Jurgen Klopp. If he was to sign a lifetime deal right now I would be very happy for him and them.”
Gerrard was in regular contact with Klopp throughout his time at Rangers and revealed he had heard from the Liverpool boss since he took the Villa role.
The pair retain a close relationship, ever since Gerrard was working at Anfield with Liverpool’s junior sides at the start of his coaching career.
“I’ve been in touch with Jurgen Klopp since day one (when Gerrard stepped into coaching Liverpool’s junior teams). We live in the same area and I bump into him when he’s walking his dogs. He is a great coach and I hope he stays for a long time.
“He sent me a message saying he was looking forward to a big hug on the side on December 11 and it’s something for me to look forward to as well.”
