Due to his health issues Gerard Houllier was forced to step down from Aston Villa bench, leaving the club chiefs to start the search for new manager.
The club owner Randy Lerner doesn’t want to rush into anything but he is aware that this process takes time and has already started interviewing possible candidates.
The majority of online bookmakers see Mark Hughes as the favourite for the job after he has decided to leave Fulham, and even though both the Welshman and Aston Villa chiefs have denied any contact, Sparky is 3.50 (5/2) with Bet365 to be appointed as the next Villa boss.
The American owner is reportedly keen on Carlo Ancelotti, who has hinted that he want to remain in the Premier League, and the Italian has already been offered the job, so it is really surprising that he is 11.50 (21/2) with Betfair to win the race.
Another free agent, Martin Jol is held in high regard by the Villa chiefs and the only reason why he wasn’t offered the job when Martin O’Neill resigned was that he used to be under contract with Ajax at the time. Former Tottenham boss is no less than 17.00 (16/1) with Paddy Power.
Rafa Benitez is also in the running as he is reportedly interested in taking over at Villa Park, with former Liverpool and Inter boss priced at 13.00 (12/1) with Victor Chandler.
Other candidates include Steve McClaren, Alan Curbishley and Roberto Martinez. Who do you think has the best chance of being appointed next Aston Villa permanent boss?
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