Steven Gerrard reveals his post Rangers 'whirlwind' that sparked Aston Villa baptism of fire

Former Rangers boss Steven Gerrard admits his abrupt exit from Ibrox left him playing catch-up at Aston Villa.

The 41-year-old departed the Premiership champions in November - only weeks after he distanced himself from the Newcastle vacancy.

But Gerrard found an approach from Villa too good to turn down as he agreed to become Dean Smith's successor in the Midlands.

And he admits he's welcomed respite from the international break that allowed him to return to Anfield for a Legends match on Saturday.

Speaking exclusively to the Liverpool Echo, he said: "It's been a whirlwind to be honest

"It all happened really quickly. I was at Rangers one minute and next thing I know I am competing in the Premier League and I am going back to Anfield and that type of stuff. But listen, I have loved the journey so far."

The Liverpool icon has enjoyed some success with former Anfield team-mate Philipe Coutinho providing a spark since his January arrival from Barcelona.

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But he believes a fresh season will allow him to make his true impact on the Aston Villa in the transfer market and on the training ground.

He added: "I have had a bit of a break this week and had a chance to get back (to Liverpool) and see my family and stuff, so I will go back in fresh for the remaining nine games and hopefully we can try and put ourselves in a good spot to try and build from the summer.

"Especially as it all happened so quickly, there wasn't really a chance to reflect or have a full pre-season. It was almost like we were in and we only had three or four days before