O'Neill sensationally departs Villa hotseat

Martin waves goodbye to Villa

Martin O'Neill has rocked Aston Villa by resigning as manager just five days before the start of the new season.

O'Neill took over the Birmingham club in 2006 and has led them to a sixth place finish in three consecutive seasons.O'Neill (58) is thought to be unhappy at having to sell his best players while unable to spend large sums to replace them. Particularly in the case of James Milner, whose move to Manchester City now seems imminent.

Speaking to Sky Sports news former Villa midfielder Paul Merson lamented the Irishman's predicament: "He can't build a team, every time someone does well, their off!"

With their best players coveted by big spending clubs, Villa have also failed to recruit any players this summer. This combination is the most likely factor to have forced O'Neill's hand. As reported earlier today on kellcosport.com, the Derry native had identified Aiden McGeady as a top transfer target but was forced to wait until the Milner sale generated some cash, that wait has now appeared to have gone on too long.

A small squad has been a hindering factor in past seasons for the Villains. Pushing for a Champion's League place in February and march, they have become known for becoming fatigued in April and May, limping over the finish line.

The former Celtic manager made a statement on the clubs website but as yet no official reason has been given for his decision.

"It's obviously a wrench to be leaving such a magnificent club." O'Neill said, "I would like to pay tribute to the Villa players, my coaching staff and the Villa supporters for all the support and encouragement they have given both the club and me personally during my time as manager. I wish them all the best for the future."

Peter Faulkner, chief executive with the claret and blue's, used the statement to thank O'Neill (on behalf of the club) for his achievements in the past four years:

"He has helped to establish the club in the upper echelons of the Premier League, has taken us to Wembley and we have also qualified for European competition for the past three seasons under his management. We wish him the best in the future."

Bookmakers, never slow to speculate, have installed Ajax coach, Martin Jol as the favourite to take the reigns at Villa Park. It may prove a greater temptation than the Fulham role he turned down just weeks ago.

Reserve team coach, Kevin McDonald, will take over as caretaker manager but Randy Lerner and the club will hope to find a replacement sooner rather than later. Along with the looming Premier League opener against West Ham, they have a Europa League qualifier against Rapid Vienna to navigate, a competition which could provide crucial funds to the club.