Villa Real

Already there are signs that a deep depression has been lifted over one of the oldest and most famous football clubs in the land. And remarkably, the 82 year old chairman that they all wanted out is responsible for all the euphoria, by delivering the manager of their dreams, Martin O’Neill, complete with his trusted backroom team of John Robertson and Steve Walford.

As a player, Martin O’Neill won plenty and learned from a man many regarded as the best in the business, the charismatic Brian Clough. And when he went into management, he succeeded at Wycombe Wanderers, transformed Leicester City and went on to be a legend at Celtic, with two titles, a treble in his very first season and a European record that included a UEFA Cup Final appearance.

Since he left Celtic to care for his wife during a period of serious illness, his name has been linked with every high profile managerial vacancy, including Middlesbrough, Newcastle United and the England job. But he has chosen Aston Villa. The much maligned Deadly Doug has at last come up with the goods. And there is a very large section of the Midlands whose happiness can scarcely be put into words.