Tony Xia has suggested that his search for a new manager is down to two candidates.
Tony Xia during a press conference
Aston Villa owner Tony Xia has taken to Twitter this afternoon to offer an update to fans on the club’s search for a new manager.
On Monday morning, Villa chose to part company with manager Roberto Di Matteo, who was only appointed in the summer and lasted just 124 days in the Villa Park hot seat.
Roberto Di Matteo and Tony Xia pose
Saturday’s 2-0 away defeat to Preston North End proved to be the final straw for Di Matteo, who left Villa Park having won just once in his 11 Championship games in charge.
The search is now on for his successor, and Villa will be hoping to have a new man in place before the big derby against Wolverhampton Wanderers after the international break.
Aston Villa owner Dr Tony Xia
A host of names have been linked with the club, and the Birmingham Mail suggest that Villa will put together a shortlist of three managers imminently, with Xia making the final decision.
With Steve Bruce heavily touted, Xia has now taken to Twitter to discuss the situation, and drew particular attention to the shortlist.
Aston Villa owner Dr Tony Xia
Xia claims that Villa have been working to get the applicants down from 25 all the way down to just two, rather than three being reported.
Xia again suggested that the decision to remove Di Matteo was not down to impatience, even though he was only given 12 games in charge in all competitions.
Who would you like to see Villa appoint as their new manager?
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