Solskjær linked with Villa role

Former Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjær has emerged as a contender for the vacant Aston Villa manager's job.

Bookmakers have slashed the odds on the Molde manager making the move to England amid rumours he is set to be approached by Villa representatives. Former boss Alex McLeish was sacked on Monday following a disappointing season that saw the Midlands club finish just two points above the relegation zone. Villa chairman Randy Lerner has since arrived in England as the club ramps up its pursuit of a new boss. Lerner and chief executive Paul Faulkner have already ruled out adopting a director of football managerial system and also dismissed reports linking former Wolves boss Mick McCarthy with the post. Norwich manager Paul Lambert was the early favourite for the job along with Wigan boss Roberto Martinez. However, both the Canaries and the Latics have expressed their determination to keep their managers and will resist any possible approach by Villa, forcing the club to cast the net wider.