Steven Gerrard confirms ‘natural boundaries’ between Villa and Jack Grealish ahead of Manchester City clash

Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard admits that there will be ‘natural boundaries’ in place between his side and Jack Grealish ahead of the former claret & blue captain’s return to Villa Park.

It will be the first time that the boyhood Villan has returned to his old stomping ground following his £100m move to Manchester City and though the manager understands that there are positive relationships between a lot of his players and Grealish - he wants both sides to be professional about it on the night.

“Listen, I think there’s natural boundaries - I think it’s common sense,” explained Gerrard.

“People have strong relationships with Jack here - we very much respect that but from Jack’s side and our side I think everyone needs to be professional and we get on with the game.

“It is what it is. For me, the focus is very much on my time with Aston Villa and what we need to do to try and get a result in this game.

“The players I’m sure will use common sense and be respectful and I’m sure Jack will from his side as well. He’s a competitor and I’m sure he’ll be focused on the job he’s given him as well - it’s not something I’ve given much thought to really.”

Whilst it’s guaranteed to be respectful between old teammates, it may not be quite that way from some fans in attendance with many still annoyed at the midfielder’s exit.

However, Gerrard believes the reaction will be largely positive and claims it’s what the 26-year-old deserves.

“I think the supporters are very grateful for what Jack gave to this club,” he said.

“They see him as one of their own, coming through the academy.

“He performed extremely well, helped them get back to the top league, by being a real influential figure who contributed extremely well.

“I don’t see anything other than a positive reaction, but once the game starts, he’s the enemy and we want to compete against him.

“We want to make it as difficult as we can for him and his team.

“He deserves a warm reaction and so do his family.”

A message from the editor:

Thank you for reading. BirminghamWorld is Birmingham’s latest news website, championing everything that is great about our city - reporting on news, lifestyle and sport. We want to start a community among our readers, so please follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and keep the conversation going.