Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard says he'll need patience if he's repeat the success he enjoyed with Rangers.

Under Gerrard, Villa have won eight and lost seven of his first 17 games in charge, as the club have made steady progress up the division, where they current occupy a position in the top half.

Gerrard said, "To create a good, winning team you need time. Everyone has to be patient here.

"We took over the team in a difficult situation. We're in a better one now but everyone needs to keep pushing the players in the right direction."

Speaking about his former club and the exciting Scottish Premiership title race north of the border, Gerrard said: I'm looking forward to watching it to see how it progresses.

“Obviously, I hope the trophy ends up back at Ibrox. It's different watching it from afar. When you work for Rangers, you get that connection with the supporters.

“The club was good for me. I respect and appreciate that they gave me a big opportunity. The Aston Villa chance came off the back of Rangers so I have nothing but respect for the people there."

Gerrard left Rangers for Villa back in November and claims the memories he made at Ibrox will stay with him for a "long time."

“In my final year there, to do that [go unbeaten], the players showed a high level of consistency under pressure," Gerrard added.

“We knew that we couldn't get it wrong. There was a lot at stake; more than just any normal league campaign.

“So I'm really proud of the achievement and proud of the lads. We celebrated a year ago and I have fantastic memories of that day. It was a big experience for me. Those memories will stay with me for a long time. I can't believe how quickly the year has gone.

“Now it's the club's 150th year and I want to say a big congratulations to Rangers for that. I wish them all the success in the future."