Villa favourite seems keen

USA coach Bob Bradley, the 4/1f to succeed Martin O'Neill at Aston Villa, admits he is keen to coach in Europe at some stage of his career.

With Villa having American owner Randy Lerner at the helm, the USA connections have led to Bradley's name being strong linked with the vacancy.

The 52-year-old revealed: "Certainly coaching in Europe at some point is something that I would love to do. I have said as well that I am always excited about new and different challenges."

Former Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann, who also has American links following a spell managing in MLS, is also near the top of the betting to becoming the next Villa boss.

Ajax manager Martin Jol, ex-England chief Sven-Goran Eriksson and former Villa player Alan Curbishley are also being linked with the vacancy.

Villa officials are yet to put a time frame on finding a replacement, but they will be eager to find a new man ahead of the transfer window closing at the end of August.

Reserve-team boss Kevin MacDonald will take charge of team affairs for now, as Villa prepare to face West Ham (Villa evens, West Ham 11/4, Draw 12/5 - Match Betting) in their opening Premier League game on Saturday.