Report names 43-year-old Aston Villa interviewed before Gerrard appointment

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Frank Lampard was amongst the options to miss out on the manager’s job at Aston Villa, with The Sun reporting that the 43-year-old had an interview before Steven Gerrard was appointed.

It was announced last week that Gerrard had got the job at Villa Park. It came after he had done a brilliant job at Rangers, winning the Scottish Premiership title last season.

He was, by no means, the only name in the frame for the post after Dean Smith was dismissed just before the international break.

Denmark and Belgium bosses Kasper Hjulmand and Roberto Martinez were linked. Meanwhile, the Villans are reportedly admirers of Ralph Hasenhuttl.

And it would appear that there was another candidate in contention for the post before Gerrard got the gig.

The Sun reports that Lampard was interviewed. It is noted however, that Gerrard was always the overwhelming choice.

Gerrard has point to prove, but Aston Villa made right decision not opting for Lampard

Lampard’s managerial career to date definitely divides opinion. He led Derby to the play-off final in his only season at Pride Park.

And he followed that by ensuring that Chelsea finished in the top four in the Premier League despite dealing with a transfer ban.

However, he was sacked by the Blues midway through his second season. And his time with the Rams was certainly helped by a number of marquee loan deals.

So while Gerrard still has a point to prove – having never managed in the Premier League – not opting for Lampard appears to be the correct call from Villa this time around.