• Premier League

Solskjaer rules himself out of Villa running

ESPN staff
May 22, 2012
Randy Lerner will seemingly have to look elsewhere for his next manager © Getty Images
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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has ruled himself out of the running to be the next Aston Villa manager, according to reports in the local media.

The Birmingham Mail reported late on Tuesday that the former Manchester United striker had decided not to be considered for the vacant post, following a whirlwind trip to England to discuss the position with Villa owner Randy Lerner.

Villa had not offered the Solskjaer the post, but he was the only candidate they had interviewed with a view to replacing Alex McLeish.

"Solskjaer is no longer an alternative for Aston Villa. He has said no for family reasons," a Villa spokesman told Norway's TV2 Sport on Tuesday evening.

Initial reports in Norway suggested Solskjaer had decided to withdraw himself from consideration for family reasons, although official confirmation of his decision is yet to be forthcoming.

"We will soon announce what the future holds," Solskjaer was quoted as saying. "You will know soon enough."

Villa owner Randy Lerner will now have to look elsewhere for his next manager, with Norwich City boss Paul Lambert and Wigan's Roberto Martinez both considered strong contenders.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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