Villa manager jumps ship

(10-08-2010) Martin O'Neill on Monday sensationally resigned as Aston Villa manager just five days before the start of the new season. The Northern Irishman gave no reason for jumping ship. "I have enjoyed my time at Aston Villa immensely. It's obviously a wrench to be leaving such a magnificent club,” said O'Neill, who took over the reigns at Villa Park from David O’Leary in 2006. "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. I wish them all the best for the future,” he added. Under O'Neill Villa finished sixth in the EPL for three successive seasons. Kevin MacDonald has been appointed caretaker boss and will prepare the side for their EPL opener against West Ham on Saturday.