Steven Gerrard was in front of the media on Friday afternoon for his pre-match press conference.
The Aston Villa head coach was quizzed on Sunday’s Premier League tie against West Ham United at Villa Park.
Here’s what he had to say…
On finding a level of consistency…
“We’ve got a lot of talent and ability in the group but that doesn’t guarantee you consistency. There are a lot of things that need to fall into place.
“When you take over a club the size and the challenge of Aston Villa, there are numerous things you need to work on and progress: the team, the squad, the culture of the club, and the mentality of the players and staff around the building. It takes time and it’s a process.
“I believe we’ll get there in the end. I didn’t expect any quick fix or overnight fix. We’re certainly working every minute we can to improve the team and get to those consistent levels.”
On seeking defensive improvements…
“Defensively, we had a huge setback in recent weeks. We went into the market and made an addition who we thought was going to help us an awful lot and strengthen that area of our team.
“It was taken away, so we continue to work and analyse if there’s anyone who can come in and help us. Until that happens, we work with what we’ve got to try and improve every single day.
“Hopefully by doing that, putting in the minutes in and coaching on the training ground, the mistakes or goals that we’re conceding will dry up.”
On West Ham United…
“I watched them last night and they certainly didn’t look like a bad team to me. West Ham have done ever so well under the guidance of David Moyes over the last few years.
“They’ve been up competing at the top end of the league and pushing for those European spots. They’ve had a fantastic run in Europe. I know more than most about European runs, as a player and as a manager, and how difficult it is to get to those latter stages.
“David Moyes and his team have done an incredible job over the last few years. There certainly won’t be any disrespect or wild opinions coming from this direction.
“Having said that, I’m sure he (Moyes) would have wanted a more positive start – a bit like myself. I’m sure he’ll be desperate to take three points at the weekend.
“It’s all to play for. It’s a tough game for both teams, and I’m looking forward to it.”
On the Hammers’ winless start…
“We’re focused on us and preparing the best possible way. It will be very difficult if we go into the game complacent or think that West Ham because they’ve had an indifferent start are not going to be a tough challenge or do everything they can to win the points.
“We’ll certainly respect our opponent and the coaching staff that are coming into town.
“The atmosphere at Villa Park against Everton was superb. We were aggressive and on the front foot, and for 80-odd minutes we found a performance that was good enough to win the game. We showed the resilience to get over the line.
“We need all those ingredients again to try and get the win we need.”
