Transfer insider Dean Jones believes that Aston Villa could sack Steven Gerrard if he fails to resolve the club’s attacking issues.

The Lowdown: Seven league goals all season

Villa have struggled in front of goal this season, scoring just seven times in nine Premier League games so far. No player at the club has scored more than one top-flight goal, with Monday’s 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest resulting in boos from some Villa supporters in attendance.

Speculation regarding Gerrard’s position has come to light in recent days, and Jones has had his say on the attacking problems, as well as the 42-year-old's future in the Midlands.

The Latest: Jones’ comments on Gerrard

When asked about Villa’s problems in the final third, Jones said that Gerrard’s position could come into question if there isn’t a change in that regard, with many fans ‘getting irritable’.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, the journalist stated: “If that doesn't change, then obviously Gerrard's future is going to come into question. This is a case of managing the project at Aston Villa because how soon do they want and need success?

“Gerrard has to hope that Purslow’s influence pays off for him here. But there's no doubt the fans are getting irritable.

“The lack of goal threat, they don't relate to Steven Gerrard, I think a lot of them don't want him already. I think this is a really tricky period.”

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The Verdict: Sunday could be crucial

Villa entertain Chelsea at Villa Park on Sunday in what could well be a make-or-break fixture for Gerrard.

A worst-case scenario could see Villa level on points with a team in the bottom three, although a win could take them into the top half.

Either way, it's crucial that we see a much better performance than what fans have witnessed in recent weeks, especially in the final third, with Gerrard finding the right formula with his plethora of attacking options.

However, another lacklustre performance could well force NSWE into making a change in the dugout - only time will tell.