Lambert may offer Thompson role

Former Aston Villa midfielder Alan Thompson could be given a coaching role by Paul Lambert after his shock exit from Celtic.

It was thought Lambert, who is expected to be officially unveiled by Villa at a press conference on Tuesday, was being tipped to draft in long time assistant boss Ian Culverhouse and head of football operations Gary Karsa from Norwich as he puts together his backroom team at Villa Park. However, the pair remain under contract at Carrow Road and prising them away from the Canaries could be tricky following the difficulties Lambert himself had when leaving. Thompson has therefore now emerged as a potential Villa assistant after Celtic confirmed his surprise Parkhead exit - reportedly decided following a telephone call with Hoops' boss Neil Lennon. Thompson has threatened legal action over his Bhoys' sacking but is now in the frame to work under Lambert in the West Midlands. The pair know each other well from their time in Glasgow and Thompson's Villa connections - he spent two years at the club between 1998-2000 - means he could be the perfect fit.