Aston Villa owner Randy Lerner has announced that he intends to put the club up for sale.
The American assumed control of the Midlands outfit in 2006 after agreeing a £62.6m takeover with the club's board.
Lerner's future at Villa Park has been called into question following a difficult season for the club, which saw the Villans finish 15th in the Premier League.
"Several weeks back I said that following the end of the season I would clarify my future role with the club, and address what had become seemingly constant rumours of a sale," Lerner said in a statement.
"I have come to know well that fates are fickle in the business of English football. And I feel that I have pushed mine well past the limit.
"The debt I owe Aston Villa whether as Chairman, custodian or simply a fan is to put the club first. To make good that debt, I owe it to Villa to move on, and look for fresh, invigorated leadership, if in my heart I feel I can no longer do the job."
Meanwhile, Villa manager Paul Lambert has insisted that he has no intention of leaving the club.
Steven Toplis
