Football
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Aston Villa chairman apologises for 'unacceptably fractured' season

Aston Villa chairman Steve Hollis says the club must bear the blame for an "unacceptably fractured" season which has led to their relegation from the Premier League.

In an open letter on the club's official website, Hollis stressed there were no excuses, but added the club have already started looking for a new manager to lead next term's Championship campaign.

Villa's 1-0 defeat to Manchester United on Saturday put the seal on a fate which has looked increasingly certain since before Christmas, and has led to the side being dubbed one of the worst in top-flight history.

Hollis wrote: "We must acknowledge that this weekend's confirmation has been the culmination of an unacceptably fractured season both on and on the pitch.

"That isn't down to bad luck To make such a claim would be insulting to each and every one of you. I must add you have all displayed unyielding commitment in adversity.

"While it is of little solace at present, the process of identifying the root causes of our circumstances started long ago and the focus now has to be looking forward and making sure lessons have been learnt.

"The search for a new manager to provide drive, direction and immediate promotion has commenced."

Tim Sherwood left the club in October after a poor start to the new season and his replacement Remi Garde lasted just 147 days before his difficult reign was brought to an end last month.

Marcus Rashford's seventh goal of the season was enough to condemn Villa to their ninth straight defeat on Saturday and prompted a warning from caretaker boss Eric Black that the club face a "massive transformation."

The supporters' frustration has built in recent weeks with a series of alleged social media indiscretions leading to a number of players -- chiefly Gabriel Agbonlahor and Leandro Bacuna -- being left out or roundly booed.

In addition, there have been questions over the role of owner Randy Lerner, who has remained in the United States during the course of an increasingly tumultuous campaign and is perceived to have failed to address fans' concerns.

Hollis added: "Your profound sadness is shared by everyone connected with the club and, while I know that will be of little consolation in the days ahead, it should be a source of reassurance as we rebuild the foundations for future successes.

"Together, we share the same goal. We intend to restore Aston Villa Football Club to its rightful place. It is a journey we must make together so we can bring success, enjoyment and exciting football back to Villa Park once more."

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