Solskjaer out of Villa running

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has pulled out of the running to become the new Aston Villa manager.

The former Manchester United striker, currently manager of Norwegian side Molde, was interviewed by Villa owner Randy Lerner over the weekend.

But Solskjaer has opted not to be considered as Alex McLeish’s successor for personal reasons.

Solskjaer was the favourite with the bookmakers to take charge of Villa who only just avoided relegation from the Premier League.

But sources close to the club are keen to stress Solskjaer was never offered the job by Lerner.

Lerner and chief executive Paul Faulkner will now step up their bid in other directions to replace McLeish.

Brendan Rodgers (Swansea), Paul Lambert (Norwich) and Roberto Martinez (Wigan) are potential candidates.

Rodgers and Lambert impressed with their respective clubs during their first season in the Premier League although it is understood Villa have yet to approach either club.

Martinez turned down the chance to take charge at Villa last summer after Gerard Houllier was forced to quit on health grounds.