Defoe gives insight into Rangers dressing room view on Gerrard exit

Jermain Defoe has given an insight into how the Rangers dressing room reacted to Steven Gerrard 's sudden exit to take over at Aston Villa.

Gerrard was appointed as Dean Smith's successor at Villa Park on Thursday to bring an end to a three-and-a-half-year spell in charge of Rangers.

It was an incredibly successful period for Gerrard and Rangers, with the Liverpool legend turning his side into title contenders, before winning the Scottish Premiership last season without losing a game.

Now, he has been given his first chance to manage in the Premier League with Villa, who are struggling towards the bottom of the table despite a summer spending spree.

The manner of Gerrard's exit has left a bitter taste in the mouths of many Rangers supporters and pundits.

Will Steven Gerrard be a success at Aston Villa? Comment below.

Some have accused him of failing to communicate with those of a Rangers-persuasion as question marks over his future began to mount following Smith's sacking.

But according to Defoe, Gerrard has left Ibrox with the best wishes of his now-former squad, despite his quick departure.

Defoe was signed by Gerrard originally on loan in January 2019, before the move was turned into a permanent one.

He made 20 appearances in all competitions last season as Rangers stormed to the title, before moving into the coaching staff alongside his position as a player this summer.

And the striker has revealed that the Rangers dressing room are wishing Gerrard every success in his new job.

His comments will also delight Villa fans, with Defoe hailing his former boss as a 'top manager'.

"On behalf of myself and everyone at Rangers we'd like to thank him for the job he did at the club, absolutely fantastic job by him and his staff," Defoe told ITV Sport.

"I wish him all the best for the future. I think he'll go there and do well 'cos I know what he brings.

"Forget about him as a footballer, but as a manager, he's a top manager, leader, and he's approachable.

"We wish him all the best, thank him for the job he's done. He's left the club in such a good place, hopefully we'll be able to move forward and win trophies."

Gerrard himself has praised Rangers following his move to the Midlands, insisting he will look back on his time in Glasgow with fond memories.

"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," Gerrard told Villa's club website when his appointment was announced.

"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."