Steven Gerrard has discussed his ‘admiration’ for Roy Hodgson as Aston Villa face Watford in the Premier League this weekend.
Gerrard will come up against Hodgson for the first time as a manager at Villa Park tomorrow, having worked under the experienced coach for club and country during his playing career.
Villa will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing defeat at Newcastle last time out, with Gerrard seeking to get the better of a coach he knows well.
The 41-year-old was captain of Liverpool during Hodgson’s ill-fated short reign at Anfield, before leading England under the management of the now Watford boss at Euro 2012.
Despite the disappointment of Hodgson’s spell with Liverpool, Gerrard insists he has huge respect for the veteran and says his former boss is a coach he looks up to ‘immensely’.
“I know Roy better than most. He’s a joy to work with, he’s a fair man, he’s an honest man,” Gerrard told his pre-match press conference.
“He’s very diligent in terms of his organisation and he puts real clarity on how he wants his team to play.
“I really enjoyed my time with him at Liverpool, even though it was short and more so with England. I’ve got nothing but admiration and respect for him.
“If I can have a small percentage of what he’s achieved in the game or the longevity he’s achieved in the game, that will be very satisfying for me.
“He’s someone who I look up to immensely.”
