Steven Gerrard has been backed to ban all mention of Manchester City star Jack Grealish in one of his first moves as Aston Villa manager.
The Liverpool legend has taken up his first Premier League managerial role, leaving after an impressive two and a half years at Rangers for the Villa Park vacancy.
Predecessor Dean Smith was given his marching orders after five defeats on the spin, with the absence of Grealish's creativity seemingly playing a part in Villa's struggles despite spending £90million over the summer.
As such, ex-Villa striker Kevin Phillips believes new boss Gerrard will be keen to leave £100m man Grealish in the past.
“The squad is very good, it is just about getting the best out of them now," Phillips told Football Insider.
"Everyone has to get over the hangover of Jack Grealish going.
"I wouldn’t be surprised it Steven comes in and says, ‘I don’t want any mention of Grealish around the training ground now. He was brilliant for the club but he has gone.’ They need to get over it and get on with it.
"Steven will come in with fresh ideas and this is now about the next chapter for Aston Villa. That is the way forward."
