Jol rules himself out of running for Villa job

Martin Jol has dealt Aston Villa a new blow by declaring himself OUT of the running to replace Martin O'Neill.

The former Villa manager shocked the Midlands faithful when he walked out on the club on Monday, apparently unhappy he was not given assurances over how much money he would be able to spend following James Milner's imminent move to Manchester City.

But early favourite Jol, who managed Tottenham between 2004 and 2007, is set to remain as Ajax manager.

The Dutchman, who turned his back on a proposed move to Fulham earlier this summer, has made no secret of his desire to return to the Premier League.

But Ajax officials are confident Jol, 54, will ignore any overtures from Villa Park to stay at the Amsterdam Arena.

An Ajax source said: "Martin loves Ajax. There were issues earlier this summer with Fulham but that's gone.

"He is happy with us and happy to continue here. We are too."

Villa owner Randy Lerner is now expected to turn his attentions to fellow American Bob Bradley.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson recently claimed the USA manager would be a success in the Premier League and, following Jol's snub, Lerner is now keen to talk to Bradley.