John Gregory has resigned as manager of Aston Villa tonight due to the pressures of the job. Gregory had been under pressure from fans and chairman Doug Ellis after Villa slipped to the fringes of a European spot.
In a statement released by Aston Villa tonight, it stated that Gregory needed to take a break during which time he will consider his future football career. "John has stated that he needs John Deehan and Stuart Gray will take over team management until the board has considered applicants for the appointment of manager," the statement read.
Chairman Doug Ellis said in the statement: "John's resignation is sad, was most unexpected but has been amicable. I can understand how John feels regarding his need for a break. This is a reflection of the pressures that managers face in modern day Premier League football. I personally wish John and his family well in all they do in the future and he will always be welcome at Villa Park."
Filed by Sinéad Kissane