I have played many games with gerard, but for my siren. In my experience he is pretty amazing. With chant of rage I could make him wreck havok very soon in the game (with ton of piercing) After a couple of rounds I use the gold (5+ mostly) to summon another big creature.
Most opponents kill him afterwards, but at that point he was worth every penny.
As a warlord, Id probably be more defensive and cautious and try to keep him alive longer.