Steven Gerrard admits he "completely understands" why Rangers fans were so frustrated at his exit from Ibrox.
The former Liverpool and England captain concedes that in a "perfect world," he wouldn't have left Rangers for Aston Villa mid-season.
So, it's for that reason that the 42-year-old can sympathise with fans who felt let down by his move to the Premier League in November 2021.
Gerrard, who was sacked by Villa in October last year, told the League Managers Association magazine: “In a perfect world I would never have left that way and I completely understand the frustrations that the club and supporters felt when I left Rangers.
“When the opportunity arose, as well as being able to manage a club of Villa’s stature in the Premier League, the chance to be nearer to my family was very important in my decision-making.
"There were also members of my coaching staff who were eager to test themselves in the Premier League.”
One of his coaching staff, Michael Beale, is now in the hot seat at Rangers having served under Gerrard as his first team coach during his time in Glasgow.
Gerrard has no regret over his move to Villa Park which ended after less than one year.
He added: “They (Villa) gave me an opportunity in the Premier League and it was a successful experience initially because we achieved the rest of guiding the team away from the bottom of the table to safety.
“I’ve had time to analyse and reflect thoroughly on the challenges of our second season. In football, you have to learn from your mistakes and take strength from success.
"You have to recharge, wait and be patient for the right moment to return. I’ve been offered opportunities to manage at club and international since I left Villa, including an exciting opportunity in an overseas league, but none have been right for me at this time.”
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