2012-05-22 22:00:00
After much deliberation, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has finally ruled himself out of the running to be Aston Villa manger. Currently
at Molde, Solskjaer had been in discussion with Villa owner, Randy Lerner with a view to taking the post but after talks with
his Norwegian side, the 'baby-faced assassin' has reportedly informed the Birmingham based club that he no longer
wishes to be considered for the job.
Former Man United striker, Solskjaer had been the bookies' - and fans - firm favourite for the job and was as short as
1/8 this morning to replace the departed Alex McLeish but went to 28/1 after the news broke of his intention to stay at Molde.
Since then the Norwegian's odds have come back into 5/1 suggesting there still may be a possibility of a further twist.
Solskjaer had previously looked certain to takeover at odds of 1/5 before a similar story broke on Saturday of his intention
to stay in Norway, odds were then pushed out to 12/1 but shortened the next day as other stories claimed Solskjaer had yet
to decide. This time, however, it appears Solskjaer has reached a final decision.
Paul Lambert and Roberto Martinez are now joint favourites for the position although it may be unlikely either would leave
their respective clubs for a side that finished lower in the Premier League table. Former Chelsea and West Ham manager, Avram
Grant, traded at over 400/1 on Betfair but may be sneaking into contention as his price currently stands at 45/1. Other names
in the betting include former Villa assistant manager, Gary McAllister, Gus Poyet and Simon Grayson but it remains to be seen
who will emerge as a viable candidate. See below for the full market.


