ASTON Villa boss Steven Gerrard believes Saints have “recruited really well” over the summer and feels they have “gone a little bit more direct this season”. Villa are set to host Saints tomorrow evening (8pm) as the Premier League returns, following a pause last weekend as a mark of respect after the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Discussing the challenge of facing Saints tomorrow,
Steven Gerrard said: “They’ve recruited really well, and he seems to be recruiting young players that are full of energy and have no fear. I worked with one of them, Joe Aribo, up at Rangers and I know what he’s capable of. They’re a dynamic team, they’re young and athletic. They’re capable of pressing in transition. They’ve gone a bit more direct and shown they’re up for the fight. The challenge is there for us – it’s an exciting one. For us, it’s very much game on.”
Asked about Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl,
Steven Gerrard added: “I’ve been impressed with his work. I like the way he’s really positive with how he goes about it. They’re a pressing team. They’ve changed slightly and gone a little bit more direct this season. He likes to give youngsters a chance and play high-energy football. During his tenure they’ve had some really impressive results and faced some issues, like ourselves. When you’re building these projects, they take time and a lot of hard work and effort. I’m sure during his tenure he’s experienced what I’ve experienced during my short time at Villa.”
