ASTON Villa boss Steven Gerrard believes Saints have "recruited really well" over the summer and feels they have "gone a little bit more direct this season".

Villa are set to host Saints tomorrow evening (8pm) as the Premier League returns, following a pause last weekend as a mark of respect after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Saints are currently three points above Villa, sitting 12th in the Premier League table.

They signed 10 players over the summer, with the likes of Romeo Lavia and Armel Bella-Kotchap in particular impressing early on.

One of their more experienced recruits was midfielder Joe Aribo, who worked with Gerrard at Rangers.

Discussing the challenge of facing Saints tomorrow, Gerrard said: “They’ve recruited really well, and he seems to be recruiting young players that are full of energy and have no fear.

“I worked with one of them, Joe Aribo, up at Rangers and I know what he’s capable of.

“They’re a dynamic team, they’re young and athletic. They’re capable of pressing in transition. They’ve gone a bit more direct and shown they’re up for the fight.

“The challenge is there for us – it’s an exciting one. For us, it’s very much game on.”

Asked about Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl, Gerrard added: “I’ve been impressed with his work. I like the way he’s really positive with how he goes about it.

“They’re a pressing team. They’ve changed slightly and gone a little bit more direct this season. He likes to give youngsters a chance and play high-energy football.

“During his tenure they’ve had some really impressive results and faced some issues, like ourselves. When you’re building these projects, they take time and a lot of hard work and effort.

“I’m sure during his tenure he’s experienced what I’ve experienced during my short time at Villa.”

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