Steven Gerrard says Aston Villa had 'no issue' with him playing in a Liverpool legends game this weekend.

The Villa manager made his return to Anfield in a match against Barcelona, helping raise money for the LFC Foundation.

Asked why it was important to take part in the Legends game, Gerrard told the club's website: "It's about coming back to play in front of the fans and it is for a fantastic cause.

"Jamie (Carragher) does a lot of fantastic work and we always want to be there to give something back, especially for our city. I couldn't wait to get to the training centre to see everyone as you don't see some people for a long time. You keep in touch with some people on WhatsApp, but we were like two kids at the training centre. It was like we were 20 and 21 again. For a short period of time, you can behave and think like you're a player again. That's what I miss, so I love every minute of it

"The first respect for me was to speak to Aston Villa about that, and credit to them as they had no issue with it at all. These opportunities only come up every so often to come back. I see a bit more of him [Carragher] but, the foreign lads that come over, it is the chance to mix with them, have a kickabout and do my bit for the city."