Soccer: Villa manager quits on eve of season

Former Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill. Photo / Wikimedia Commons

Martin O'Neill resigned as Aston Villa manager on Monday, five days before the start of the Premier League season, Reuters reported today.

The 58-year-old Northern Irishman announced his decision in a joint statement with chief executive Paul Faulkner on the club website.

"I have enjoyed my time at Aston Villa immensely. It's obviously a wrench to be leaving such a magnificent club," O'Neill said.

"I would like to pay tribute to the Villa players, my coaching staff and the Villa supporters for all the support and encouragement they have given both the club and me personally during my time as manager."

Reserve team manager Kevin MacDonald will take caretaker charge for the club's opening game of the season at home to West Ham United on Saturday.

- NZHERALD STAFF