Randy returns to bidding table

Lerner, 44, flew home last Wednesday after discussions with Ellis and was understood to be upset at the response he received in talks about a potential deal. But he is though to have returned to the negotiating table and will make an official offer to buy out Doug Ellis within days. O'Neill is the favoured choice of chairman Ellis and Lerner, as well as local businessman Michael Neville, who has also put together a takeover consortium and has so far submitted the only firm bid.
 

Reports in the Midlands claimed former Leicester City and Celtic boss O'Neill was in lengthy talks with Villa officials on Monday, and may even be appointed before the start of their tour of Germany and Holland, which kicks off in Hanover on Saturday. But those claims have been put on hold as headline-writer's dream Lerner looks to sidle past Solihull businessman Neville in the race to buy the club.