• Premier League

Paul Lambert confirmed as Aston Villa boss

ESPN staff
June 2, 2012
Paul Lambert replaces Alex McLeish at Aston Villa © PA Photos
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Aston Villa have confirmed Paul Lambert has been appointed as their new manager.

Villa have been on the hunt for a new boss after they sacked former coach Alex McLeish following a disappointing 2011-12 season, as the club finished 16th and won just four times at home.

Wigan's Roberto Martinez had been linked with the post, and also the previously vacant role at Liverpool, but the Spaniard opted to remain at the DW Stadium.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was also in the frame, having held talks with Villa, but the former Manchester United forward ultimately stayed with his current side Molde.

The Midlands side have this week upped the ante in their pursuit of Lambert, who had seen his offer of resignation rejected by Norwich, and confirmed on Saturday the appointment of the Scot.

A statement on Villa's official website read: "The board of Aston Villa are delighted to confirm that Paul Lambert has been appointed Villa manager."

Norwich have since issued a statement of their own denying reports a compensation package has been agreed with Villa. Talks between the two clubs are ongoing.

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