Former Aston Villa striker Stan Collymore has launched a stinging attack on team owner Randy Lerner and called for him to sell the club.

The talkSPORT pundit reacted angrily after his column was dropped from the Villa programme due to his criticism of the club's hierarchy.

"On the watch of Mr Lerner, and Tom Fox as chief executive, the club have become the laughing stock of the Premier League. This, England's fourth most successful football club," said Collymore in a furious Twitter rant.

"So do I pretend everything is great? Or do I broadcast justifiable criticism as they come to terms with a sixth year of complete and utter dross on the pitch, and ineptitude of the highest order off it?"

Collymore went on to say that he is pledging his support to the fan campaign that is seeking new ownership for the Villans.

"I will now join fan groups and individuals actively looking to other potential owners to come in swiftly and hasten change," he added.

"Our great club will be back, but only with new ownership. So please Mr Lerner, instead of petty sackings of columnists who tell the truth about our club, please sell up and go."

Villa are currently second from bottom in the Premier League with four points from nine games.