Steven Gerrard says he couldn't let Aston Villa chance pass him by
The former Ibrox boss addressed the media for the first time since taking over at Aston Villa
Last updated 18th Nov 2021
Steven Gerrard has spoken to the media for the first time since being announced as Aston Villa's new manager.
The former England captain left Rangers last week to take over at the Premier League side.
Gerrard made the move down south with his backroom staff including Gary McAllister and Michael Beale.
The 41-year old sat next to chief executive Christian Purslow to be questioned by the media on Thursday - and was asked how hard a decision it was to leave Ibrox.
He said: "It was a difficult decision and I certainly left with a heavy heart. I built up some fantastic relationships up at Rangers. It's a club that I've got immense respect for.
"I was given a remit three-and-a-half years ago up at Rangers and went on a journey and we completed that remit.
"Approximately 10 days ago, the opportunity came to join another iconic club and I think it's important to make sure that this press conference is about Aston Villa.
"It was an opportunity I couldn't let pass me by.
"It has been a really happy time for me. The opportunity to be back in the Premier League and the opportunity to be back close to my family are the two reasons this was right for me."