Bailey to get third manager in one year

National winger Leon Bailey will play for his third boss in just more than one year, as Steven Gerrard has been sacked as Aston Villa's manager.

Gerrard was under pressure following a string of recent bad results but the axe finally fell yesterday, after Aston Villa were beaten 3-0 by Fulham in their English Premier League match at Craven Cottage, after which the announcement was made.

Harrison Reed opened the scoring in the 36th minute while Aleksandar Mitrovic added another in the 67th minute from the penalty spot. Aston Villa doomed their fate for back-to-back defeats, as they had the ball in their own net six minutes from time, extending their winless run to four and ultimately costing Gerrard his job, after taking over in November.

Bailey, who penned a deal with Aston Villa in August last year, started the match and played for 57 minutes before being substituted.

Aston Villa released a short statement confirming Gerrard's exit.

"We would like to thank Steven for his hard work and commitment and wish him well for the future," a spokesperson said on Aston Villa's website.

Bailey arrived at Aston Villa a year ago under then manager Dean Smith, who also parted company with the club, after a string of poor results. Reports are that former Tottenham Hotspurs and PSG head coach Mauricio Pochettino is one of the candidates for the job.

Aston Villa are currently in 17th place with nine points tied with Wolves but ahead on goal difference and one point above 19th place Leicester City who defeated Leeds United 2-0.

Bailey has made 10 Premier League appearances for Aston Villa so far this season, scoring one goal and registering one assist. That goal was last month when they drew 1-1 with Manchester City. It was his first goal in more than a year.