David Moyes, Nigel Pearson in frame for Aston Villa job

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 11 April 2016

David Moyes and Nigel Pearson reportedly top Aston Villa's wishlist for their next manager as they prepare for life in the Championship.

David Moyes and Nigel Pearson have reportedly emerged as the frontrunners for the top job at Aston Villa next season.

The Midlands side's relegation to the Championship will likely be confirmed during next weekend's round of fixtures, bringing to an end their 28-year tenure in the top flight of English football.

According to The Telegraph, the Villa board met to discuss managerial targets ahead of Saturday's defeat to Bournemouth and will compile a shortlist this week.

Former Manchester United manager Moyes and ex-Leicester City boss Pearson, who is credited with laying the foundations for the Foxes' unlikely title bid, are thought to be top of the list. Burnley's Sean Dyche and Hull City's Steve Bruce are also among the names being considered.

The newspaper claims that Villa are prioritising "a British manager" with experience in the top two divisions in England as they look for an immediate bounce back to the Premier League next season.

The Midlands side are hoping to make their appointment before the end of the season to give the new manager time to run the rule over the current playing squad.