Steven Gerrard sent grim Aston Villa warning as ex Rangers boss told 'it doesn't pay to be too honest'

Former Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has been urged to box clever by Tim Sherwood amid his bid to lift Aston Villa off the canvas.

The Liverpool icon has endured a torrid run of results at Villa Park but he and his players rediscovered their mojo during a spirited 1-1 draw with Manchester City on Saturday. However, their clash with fellow strugglers Leicester at the weekend is almost certainly set to called off after the passing of The Queen.

Former Villa boss Sherwood admits he's a major admirer of Gerrard but has sent a firm message to the 42-year-old ahead of a mammoth run of fixtures. Speaking to the Mirror, Sherwood said: 'When Stevie (Gerrard) came into the club I was really taken by him. He's authentic, always speaks the truth and I'm surprised at the start they've made. He's honest in front of camera, almost too honest a times, it doesn't pay to be too honest.

"But that's the direction he wants to go, I did the same, always wore my heart on my sleeve. But it takes it toll in the end and you end up losing your job. He's trying to take the pressure off the players, but you do that, the pressure will come to you.'

Ex- Rangers manager Gerrard knows an upturn of results is needed for a club who have real designs on becoming an English Premier League force in the coming seasons.

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