Manchester United sent Harry Maguire plea after Steven Gerrard's huge Aston Villa decision

Steven Gerrard has elected to replace Tyrone Mings as the captain of Aston Villa as the defender faces the prospect of potentially playing fewer Premier League minutes next season following the arrival of Diego Carlos from Sevilla.

The Brazilian joined Villa in a £26million switch from the La Liga side and will next season be partnered with one of Mings, Calum Chambers or Ezri Konsa, who has made a miraculous recovery from injury over pre-season. Mings took the armband from former skipper Jack Grealish last summer, but has since seen his role removed under Gerrard.

Speaking of his decision to changes captains, Gerrard said: "John has demonstrated that he is ready to take on the captaincy through his performances on the pitch combined with his attitude and application in training. He is a popular member of the dressing room who sets high standards and expectations of himself.

"Emi is a respected senior member of the squad while Ashley Young’s experience speaks for itself and he is the perfect ambassador for the first team. Naturally, I have had to have a discussion with Tyrone Mings and have explained my reasons for making this decision. More importantly, I believe that not having the responsibility of the captaincy will allow Tyrone to focus more on his own game which can only benefit him and the team."

Mings himself posted a classy message on Twitter. The defender wrote: "For me this isn’t about John or I, it’s about what’s right for Aston Villa. I have no issues with the managers decision; I’ve loved leading this team. Anyone who knows @jmcginn7 knows how infectious he is and it will be an honour to play underneath his captaincy."

Villa supporters and indeed fans of opposition clubs have commended Mings on his