Mauricio Pochettino could replace Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa as former Rangers boss enters 'most critical' week

Steven Gerrard is facing a potential exit from Aston Villa less than a year on from his Rangers departure.

The Villans are 16th on goal difference in the Premier League after a difficult start to the season that's brought two wins in 10 Premier League matches. It's caused unrest amongst the support at Villa Park and The Telegraph report that they may line up an ambitious approach to lure Mauricio Pochettino to Birmingham. It's claimed Gerrard is entering 'the most critical week of his year in charge.'

Even if all goes to plan, 'even a result against Fulham or Brentford may not be enough to save him' from the axe.' The Argentine is the first person they will turn to should Gerrard be sacked, with co-owner Nassef Sawiris expected to lead any recruitment process with Wes Edens, chief executive Christian Purslow and sporting director Johan Lange all heavily involved. It was Purslow who was a big factor in tempting his current man away from Rangers last year.

It's understood though that any strong bonds won't be enough to save Gerrard, who is preparing his team for two huge matches. After winning the Premiership and offering strong European showings at Ibrox, Villa brought him back to England for a crack at where he shone as a player for Liverpool, but it's been an up and down spell for the ex-midfielder.

He said after Sunday's 2-0 loss to Chelsea: "Every time I've spoken to the media, I've fronted up and I won't hide from the responsibility, the criticism or the noises that are coming from the stands."