Martin O'Neill steps down as Aston Villa manager

Martin O’Neill steps down as Aston Villa manager

In a development that will send shock waves through Aston Villa, Martin O’Neill has resigned from his post as manager of the Birmingham based club. O’Neill’s resignation leaves the club in tatters following the controversy surrounding James Milner.

Martin O'Neill : Leaving on a sad note

O’Neill, best remembered for leading Scottish giant Celtic to the UEFA Cup final in 2003 and recently Aston Villa to the 2010 Carling Cup final, is famous for infusing British youth into his team as opposed to the other Premier League clubs which bring in a pool of international talent.

Following the World Cup debacle and the debate raging over the introduction of foreign players thus affecting the nation’s interests, Martin O’Neill’s departure is costly considering the philosophy of grooming the national talent that he preached. Martin O’Neill has performed admirably during his 4 year stay at Aston Villa, during which he was linked to becoming the next manager of England and Manchester United. Last season Villa finished 6th in the Premier League.

Recently, O’Neill was involved in a controversy involving Villa midfield star James Milner. O’Neill claimed he had been misquoted in the media that Milner had plans of leaving the club. The controversy blew out of proportions and now Manchester City are close to signing the midfielder. O’Neill’s departure surely leaves Aston Villa in ruins considering their star player’s almost certain departure.

Kevin MacDonald has been appointed as caretaker manager as Villa take on West Ham on the 14th of August.