Gregory: Aitken could 'do a Roeder'

Former Aston Villa boss John Gregory believes Roy Aitken could follow in the footsteps of Glenn Roeder and impress as a caretaker boss.

Aitken has taken temporary charge at Villa Park since David O’Leary’s departure and, with the Premiership season looming, could be in charge for the start of the campaign.

It is a similar situation to Newcastle last season when Roeder took over as caretaker boss from Graeme Souness before securing the permanent job as the Magpies qualified for European action.

Gregory, who was Villa boss from 1998 to 2002, told Sky Sports News: “He’s the man in charge at the moment, so he’ll get the opportunity and could well start the season.

“As we saw with Glenn Roeder, he came in and totally transformed the team with his tinkering and coaching methods, and they find themselves in the UEFA Cup.

“Who says Roy Aitken cannot do the same at Villa?”

Gregory views the vacant job as an excellent chance for a manager to gain success.

He added: “I think it’s a great opportunity for someone to go in there and revitalise the club – it needs a good kick up the backside. I hope someone goes in there and gets them where they should be.”