Sherwood axed by struggling Villa

LONDON: Tim Sherwood was sacked as Aston Villa manager on Sunday less than 24 hours after a defeat against Swansea that left his side languishing in the Premier League relegation zone.
Sherwood had been under increasing pressure during Villa’s dismal run of six successive league defeats and Saturday’s 2-1 home loss proved the final straw for the club’s owner Randy Lerner.
American tycoon Lerner is reported to have held extensive talks with Villa’s chief executive Tom Fox following the Swansea defeat and they felt the only solution to the team’s troubles was to axe Sherwood after just eight months in charge.
“Aston Villa Football Club has parted company with manager Tim Sherwood today,” a statement on Villa’s website read.
“The Board has monitored the performances closely all season and believes the results on the pitch were simply not good enough and that a change is imperative.
“However, the Club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Tim for all his efforts during a difficult period last season and for the many positive contributions he has made to the entire football setup during his time with the Club. We wish him well in the future.”