Aston Villa are determined to bring in a long-term successor to Paul Lambert rather than a firefighter until the end of the season and Tim Sherwood is still the most likely candidate to take over as manager. Villa's search continues but it is understood that contact has been made between Tom Fox, the club's chief executive, and Sherwood.

The Midlands club are targeting a highly motivated, progressive manager who is keen to bring through young players and Sherwood, with his track record at Tottenham of giving academy graduates a chance, fits into that philosophy. It is believed that the Villa job would appeal to Sherwood but it remains to be seen whether talks are taken further and also if another candidate emerges from what is believed to be a shortlist in every sense of the word. The fact that the team are third from bottom in the table and the transfer window has closed has not helped the situation. Guardian Service