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Former Aston Villa Star Claims Call Was Ignored By Club Before Steven Gerrard Hire

Former Aston Villa Star Claims Call Was Ignored By Club Before Steven Gerrard Hire

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Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar

Dwight Yorke has claimed that Aston Villa ignored his call over the managerial position before eventually hiring Steven Gerrard.

Villa confirmed the appointment of Gerrard on Thursday following the sacking of Dean Smith.

The Liverpool legend has penned a three-and-a-half-year contract at Villa Park after leaving his role at Rangers.

Gerrard beat a host of candidates to land the prestigious role, including former Villa star Yorke who applied for the vacancy.

But the 50-year-old has revealed he got no response from co-owner Wes Edens despite his 'fantastic' relationship with him.

Yorke, who has no senior managerial experience, told Sky Sports via the Mirror: "I have to say at this time, although I have a fantastic relationship with Wes, I still haven't been able to get a response.

"So even with the connection that I've got, you would still like 'Well it's not possible, we have other options and maybe when the job comes around again.'

"I would just like to be acknowledged, but I'm not even getting that. I've got to be realistic, I've got to be real with myself, understanding the challenge I face as an individual getting in.

"It's not going to be as straightforward as it is for others and that is a fact.

"I've got to take that on board and look elsewhere and try to get manager experience somewhere else."

Image: PA
Image: PA

Yorke is clearly frustrated with how the club dealt with his application considering his ties with the Midlands side.

He spent almost a decade at Villa, scoring 98 goals during his spell before joining Manchester United.

Image: PA
Image: PA

Unfortunately for Yorke, he'll have to watch Gerrard manage his former team this season.

As for the former England captain, he's excited with the opportunity at hand ahead of taking charge of his first game.

"Aston Villa is a club with a rich history and tradition in English football and I am immensely proud to become its new head coach," he said.

"In my conversations with Nassef, Wes and the rest of the Board, it was apparent how ambitious their plans are for the club and I am looking forward to helping them achieve their aims.

"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everybody associated with Glasgow Rangers for giving me the opportunity to manage such an iconic football club.

"Helping them secure a record-breaking 55th league title will always hold a special place in my heart. I would like to wish the players, staff and supporters the very best for the future."

Featured Image Credit: Aston Villa/PA

Topics: Aston Villa, Football, dwight yorke, Steven Gerrard