Eriksson keen on Villa job

Sven Goran Eriksson has indicated he is interested in the Aston Villa job.

Villa start their search for a new manager today following the resignation of Martin O'Neill - and already Eriksson has emerged as a real contender.

The former England and Manchester City boss is keen on a return to the Premier League and would be happy to talk if approached.

Eriksson, who has managed Mexico, Notts County and the Ivory Coast since leaving City in June 2008, is now a free agent after his contract with the Ivorians ended on June 25. And his agent Athole Still says the Swede would be happy to speak to Villa.

He said: "Sven has been linked with a lot of jobs but let's put it this way - it's no secret he would like to return to the Premier League so linking him with the job is logical."

There is no evidence of an official approach from Villa so far as they draw up a short list.

Other managers such as USA coach Bob Bradley, Ajax boss Martin Jol and out-of-work Alan Curbishley, a former Villa player, have all been mentioned as contenders.

But Eriksson, 62, may well appeal to Villa owner Randy Lerner as he looks for an experienced manager with a less confrontational edge than the outgoing O'Neill.