Press Release

Aston Villa fans and shareholders still want chairman and major share-holder Doug Ellis to quit despite the arrival of Martin O’Neill as the new manager.

O’Neill has been the overwhelming choice of supporters to try and revive Villa since the departure of David O’Leary just over a fortnight ago.

But they still believe a new consortium has to take control of Villa and provide O’Neill with the funds needed for strengthening the squad.

There is speculation American billionaire Randy Lerner is returning to England to try and complete a takeover of Villa.

A joint statement by the Villa Shareholders’ Association and supporters Group Villa Fans Combined reads: ‘The appointment of Martin O’Neill is a popular move with the vast majority of fans.

‘Martin O’Neill has been successful wherever he has been and he could build an empire at Villa. He will be like a breath of fresh air to Aston Villa.

‘The last time that such unity was shown by supporters in welcoming a new manager was probably when Ron Saunders was appointed – or maybe Ron Atkinson.

‘The fact Martin O’Neill has come to Villa now is because he probably wants to get the playing side sorted out before the new season starts.

‘But it is hoped the arrival of Martin O’Neill is the signal for the departure of Doug Ellis.

‘Success will only return when a new board with fresh ideas is in place. There is no better time for Mr. Ellis to step aside with consortiums wanting to buy Aston Villa.

‘A lot of Premier League chairman will not be pleased with Villa getting Martin O’Neill as manager and also if we get a new board in place because they will recognise the club could become a major threat again.

‘We would anticipate Martin is coming now because he believes a new consortium will eventually be in place and funds made available.’

In other news we can exclusively reveal that Mr Jonathan Fear was refused permission to attend the press conference. More on this shocking story later!