The Birmingham Mail's Ashley Preece has revealed that Coventry City midfielder Gus Hamer is "admired" by Steven Gerrard.

What's the story?

During a Q&A for The Birmingham Mail, Preece claimed that both Gerrard and assistant Gary McAllister were both at Coventry's clash with Birmingham recently, and that Hamer is someone they have had their eye on.

He said: "As for January, usual names are sticking given Gerrard's Rangers links but position-wise; a left-back, DM and possibly a forward could be added. Villa, Gerrard and Lange still assessing squad (three weeks into six-week review process). Bailey/Traore injuries are a concern for me.

"There could also be something in Gerrard and Gary Mac being at Coventry vs Birmingham the other week as well with Gus Hamer (Cov) admired."

Perfect for Villa

Despite playing in a deeper position last season, Hamer was Coventry's third top scorer with five goals while he also provided three assists too.

That all-round facet to his game is reflected by the fact he also averaged an impressive 1.4 interceptions and 1.3 tackles per game, and a team-high 1.5 key passes and 1.8 shots per match.

It's no surprise then that his boss, Mark Robins, raved about his talents on the Sky Blues Extra podcast, where he called him "unbelievable" (via the Coventry Telegraph), whilst pundit Ali Maxwell simply dubbed the Dutchman as the "class act" of this Coventry side.

In fact, Robins has already tipped Hamer to move to the Premier League in the future and praised his "frightening" technique, and given the kind of dynamic midfielder he is, could be absolutely perfect for this new era under Gerrard at Villa.

The 5 foot 6 machine could bring some vital depth and quality to Villa's engine room, especially when you consider that they tried to sign James Ward-Prowse in the summer and are now currently dealing with injuries and potential AFCON absences with Marvelous Nakamba next month too.

Meanwhile, Gerrard must finally unleash this Villa star...