Villa fans want Ellis to follow O'Leary

Aston Villa supporters are calling on chairman Doug Ellis to follow David O’Leary out of the Villa Park door.

Ellis has seen 13 managers come and go in his two spells in charge – he also held the reins from 1968-75 – and clearly some Villa fans feel the time is now right for the 82-year-old to relinquish control at Villa Park after 24 years at the helm.

Ellis is known for keeping a tight rein on the club’s finances and that prompted the release of a statement, said to be issued by Villa players, last Friday which questioned the Villa’s chief’s ambition.

Villa launched an inquiry into the circumstances that led to the statement being released and although it concluded O’Leary had played no part the 48-year-old Irishman still departed after three years at the helm as it was felt a change was required.

Caretaker manager Roy Aitken today confirmed the players still want a meeting with Ellis to resolve a number of issues, while Villa fans vented their frustration at Ellis.

“As soon as criticism and pressure mounts on Doug Ellis he fires the manager,” said Aston Villa Shareholders’ Association chairman Jonathan Fear.

“He is unable to look into the mirror and see the common denominator. He should have gone first.

“But it’s no surprise O’Leary has gone. There was a lot of anger amongst the fans and I don’t think anyone will shed any tears for him.

“He distanced himself from the fans, insulted them, and last season was diabolical.

“But while Ellis is here I can’t see anyone succeeding. Why would a 14th manager succeed whereas all the others have failed?”

Aston Villa Supporters’ Trust spokesperson Neil Heitzman is also of the same mind as he said: “We’re relieved the situation regarding David O’Leary has been resolved swiftly.

“The whole summer has been a torrid time for Aston Villa fans, and this news will act as a much-needed boost to fan morale.

“The decision made by Doug Ellis now represents possibly the most crucial managerial decision of his career.

“But we again urge him to do right by the club and retire gracefully, allowing fresh blood and a new manager to drive the club forward.

“The club stand at a huge crossroads and only he can determine if the club follows the correct path.”

Former Villa left-back Colin Gibson, who played for the club from 1978-85, is another who feels Ellis should quit.

“I think most fans would like to see him go too now,” said Gibson.

“As a chairman Ellis is meticulous, very shrewd. He’s nobody’s fool, but he’s getting old and we need someone who can steer the club back on course.”