Villa boss Ellis will not make way
LONDON, England -- Aston Villa boss Doug Ellis, who turns 80 next week, has warned his critics that he has no intention of stepping down to make way for a younger chairman.
"I am a great believer in never retiring. I feel it is important to keep your brain active," Ellis, Villa's largest shareholder, told fans who have questioned the lack of investment at the Premiership side.
Villa are lying seventh from bottom, four points off the relegation zone in England.
In an interview with Birmingham's Sunday Mercury Ellis said: "I have heard all about the 'Ellis Out' brigade who have made their voices known in recent days.
"In my view that has been instigated by certain people. To them, I can only say there wasn't anyone rushing forward to put money in the club when I did on two occasions.
"There was a small amount in 1968 and a bigger amount in 1982. Where were these people then? I try to do everything possible on behalf of the club and our supporters."
He added: "I have had big, big offers in the past (for Villa) although I cannot talk about them.
"I am duty bound to listen to those as chairman of the plc. And I have always said that everything is for sale."
He said he was prepared to relinquish his role as chief executive if "the right man" appeared.
"But I will still hold the chair," he insisted.
"That's not going to be a problem and I will be able to give guidance to a younger man who comes in."
