Rangers boss Steven Gerrard is reportedly high on Aston Villa's managerial shortlist after Dean Smith was sacked on Sunday.

Smith's time at Villa Park was brought to an end after five successive defeats, the latest of which was at Southampton on Friday.

The Daily Mail says Gerrard is admired by key figures in the Villa hierarchy.

The Liverpool legend has done a terrific job at Rangers, helping the Ibrox club win the Scottish Premier League title last season.

Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmand is also being considered, as well as fellow Premier League managers Ralph Hasenhuttl and Thomas Frank.