Steven Gerrard delivers telling comments on what he’s learned about Aston Villa squad in adversity

Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard says that the sticky patch his side are currently experiencing has only helped him learn more about certain individuals within the team, adding that things are being ‘analysed’ constantly.

Villa have picked up just one point from their last nine available and have managed just one win in 2022.

After such a positive start to Gerrard’s tenure which began with a 2-0 victory over Saturday’s opponents, Brighton, things have been far from straightforward.

But the former Liverpool captain says that blips were expected and now it’s all about taking a look how certain players respond to tough times.

“Lots and lots and lots of different things about all of them,” Gerrard explained when asked what he has learned about his team.

“If we go through a full squad of players, we go through the last run of form or when we come in there’s a lot to discuss and I’m not sure you’ve got the time on a Friday or I’ve got the time.

“But of course, players react in different ways. When things are great and you have a positive start everyone is smiling and everyone is expressing themselves and in a good place.

“Sometimes it takes a little bit of a rocky road, a few set-backs, a few bumps to see how people react in them situations - as people, as characters, and as players so without a doubt these are getting analysed by not just me but by a lot of people and have been since day one.

“That’s the way it’s got to be at this club.”

Aston Villa take on Brighton on Saturday 26 February at the Amex Stadium in a15:00 kick-off (GMT).

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