Maradona interest in Aston Villa job
DIEGO Maradona’s agent insists the former Argentina captain and coach would love to succeed Martin O’Neill as Aston Villa manager.
Caretaker boss Kevin MacDonald is currently in charge at the Midlands club after O’Neill walked out last week following a breakdown in relations with owner Randy Lerner.
MacDonald enjoyed the perfect start to his reign by beating West Ham 3-0 in Saturday’s Premier League opener, but no decision has been taken regarding a permanent appointment.
Maradona’s representative Walter Soriano said: “I think Diego would be very open to the idea of coming to England and managing Aston Villa.
“He is very attracted to English football and the way of life in your country and I know he would be very willing to move there.
“He loves the English countryside and your respect for privacy, so he would be very happy there, especially at a big club like Aston Villa.
“If the owner Randy Lerner wants to make him a serious offer, I am sure he would get a very positive response.
“Diego is currently talking with a number of clubs in Europe, including another one in England, about a management role and is looking at his options carefully.”
MacDonald will be in charge for Thursday’s Europa League clash with Rapid Vienna, and midfielder Stiliyan Petrov hopes he keeps the job. “I hope we can help him take that job,” said the Bulgarian. “We are behind him.”