Former Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard is preparing to return to management.

That's according to a member of his staff at Villa, Neil Cutler.

Less than a year after his arrival, Gerrard was relieved of his duties at the club following the 3-0 defeat to Fulham on October 20 as Villa risked flirting with a potential relegation battle down in 16th.

Villa have since handed four time Europa League champion Unai Emery the reigns in B6, with the former Arsenal and Paris Saint Germain boss recording back-to-back wins in his first two Premier League games in charge, propelling the club into 12th as a result.

Speaking to the Claret & Blue podcast, Cutler was asked whether he'd stayed in contact Gerrard since his departure, where he revealed the former Liverpool midfielder is taking time away to prepare for his next role in football.

"We've text a fair bit yeah. To make sure he's alright and his family are okay. He's enjoying a bit of a rest and preparing himself to go again. It will be interesting to see where he goes next," said Cutler.