Sherwood learned from ‘big challenge’ at Villa

Rob Conlon
Tim Sherwood: Manager says he learned a lot at Aston Villa

Tim Sherwood: Manager says he learned a lot at Aston Villa

Tim Sherwood has expressed his disappointment after being sacked by Aston Villa but says he learned a lot during his eight-month tenure.

The former Tottenham boss was sacked following Swansea City’s 2-1 win at Villa Park – Villa’s sixth straight Premier League loss – which left the club second bottom of the division and without a win since the opening day of the campaign.

Sherwood replaced Paul Lambert in February, saving the club from relegation and also guiding the side to the FA Cup final, where they were beaten 4-0 by Arsenal.

“I am very disappointed that I will not be able to carry on in my role as manager of Aston Villa,” the 46-year-old said in a statement released by the League Managers Association.

“I knew when I took on the role that it would be a big challenge, but it proved to be one I greatly enjoyed and I know I have learned a lot from this experience.

“Obviously, the initial priority was to stay in the Premier League, but beating Liverpool in the FA Cup semi at Wembley and then leading the team out for the final was an achievement and experience that I will treasure for the rest of my career.

“I’d like to thank my coaching staff and the staff throughout the club for their dedication, the Villa fans for their passionate support and the players, who gave everything during my time at the club. I wish the club all the best for the rest of the season and indeed for the future.”

Former Lyon manager Remi Garde is the favourite to take over from Sherwood, although David Moyes, Brendan Rodgers, Nigel Pearson and Bob Bradley are also believed to be names under consideration.

On Monday, former Villa striker Dwight Yorke also expressed his interest in the job.

Who do you think should replace Sherwood? Have your say on our new Aston Villa forum.