Parting by Mutual Dissent

What a curious mixture of tragedy and comedy Aston Villa Football Club has become. The embarrassment caused by publication of a players’ statement purporting to criticise octogenarian Chairman Doug Ellis. An internal inquiry which ‘Deadly Doug’, currently holidaying in Majorca, presumably operated by remote control. And, following long discussions in the boardroom, the widely anticipated departure of manager David O’Leary – subsequently characterised as “an amicable parting of the ways”. It’s amazing how amicable an appropriate compensation package can make things.

David O’Leary had been in charge for a fraction over three years – not bad for a Villa manager, especially one with very little money to spend – but following an indifferent season many of the fans wanted him out. Unfortunately, even more of the fans want Deadly out. But who sacks the sacker?