Steven Gerrard has stressed how centre-back Ezri Konsa remains “a big part” of Aston Villa amid speculation over his future in B6. The defender – performing below his usual standards this season – was dropped for last week’s win over Norwich despite helping to claim a clean sheet at Leicester the week before. However, putting such speculation over Konsa’s future to bed,
Steven Gerrard said: “There’s nothing to speak about as far as Konsa’s concerned. He’s a big part of this club and I don’t think anyone needs to read any stories about Ezri except that he’ll be here for pre-season, will reset and be ready to go.”
BirminghamLive quizzed the Villa boss about all four of his current centre-backs – Tyrone Mings, Konsa, Calum Chambers and Kortney Hause – and asked if they’ll remain in place competing for starts next season.
Steven Gerrard said: “Look, I think we’ve got games remaining so we focus on the games and the points that are available but, in terms of every individual, we’ll be having conversations with them all. We’ll be telling them honestly where they are. Things can change at the club in different areas of the team, so it’s difficult to say at the moment. We’re trying to improve every area of this team. That’s the message and that’s the headline for you: we’re trying to improve every area.”
What Gerrard will add this summer will be the right characters. The 41-year-old knows what can be achieved if he can bring in those with an all-in mentality given what he achieved at Rangers previously. On signing players with the right character,
Steven Gerrard replied: “100 per cent. Massive. I mean you see the European games this week. Of course, talent and good footballers are needed but togetherness, unity, fight, spirit are everything and are all the ingredients you need around the talent. You need that individually from players and that needs to be a collective thing as well. That’s not just the players, that’s the staff. It’s got to be a club unity and a club strength. As I say, there’s a lot of work to be done here on and off the pitch. It’s something we’re all striving for.”
