Villa intent on interviewing McLeish

ASTON VILLA have revealed their intention to interview Alex McLeish “imminently” regarding their vacant managerial position.

Villa are pushing ahead with their plans to talk to McLeish as they believe he is a “free agent” following his decision to resign as Birmingham boss.

They also insist the “high emotions” surrounding the possible appointment of McLeish because of his spell at City will not deter them if they feel he is the right candidate.

Villa said in a statement: “The club has been reluctant to elaborate publicly on our search for a new manager and, in particular, to confirm or deny our interest in specific candidates.

“This is not a new policy, indeed it is the approach that we have taken both in regard to managerial prospects, and potential player signings.

“The club understands that Alex McLeish is a free agent. We therefore intend to interview him imminently in order to make a decision regarding his candidacy to become Villa manager.’’

The statement added: “We feel it is essential to select a manager who understands and supports our strategy for the club to grow and to be sustainable.

“Otherwise, the natural tensions and competitive pressures that are involved with every season will ultimately cause instability and make continuity impossible.

“We would, however, like to emphasise that in deciding to interview Alex McLeish, the board has taken his tenure at our local rivals and the strong emotions associated with this very seriously.

“We are determined, still, not to allow that three and a half year post to disqualify him should he be the best candidate for the role of Aston Villa manager.”

Birmingham, however, are lived over Villa’s intentions and have announced they will lodge a formal complaint over what they view as the “tapping up” of McLeish. Birmingham said in a statement: “Birmingham City find Aston Villa’s announcement to proceed with an interview with Alex McLeish a contempt of Premier League and FA rules.

“The club feel this will taint football and give the game and the footballing authorities a bad name if this is allowed to materialise. The club will do what is within its powers to prevent this and will lodge a formal complaint to the authorities tomorrow as there is now not the slightest doubt remaining about this tap up attempt.

“This conduct, if condoned, will open up flood gates and set a very bad precedent. This is also an attack against the intelligence and integrity of not only the Villa fans, but most importantly our fans who are badly let down after having just been relegated.’’

Earlier Birmingham acting chairman Peter Pannu said McLeish can leave the club with his blessing but insisted “it will be done properly” and within the terms of his contract.

Pannu said: “The matter concerning Alex McLeish is with the Birmingham City lawyers. They are dealing with it.

“I have nothing against Alex McLeish. If he moves to another place, he will go with my blessing.

“But it will be done properly as per the contract.”