Aston Villa could be set to approach Celtic for permission to talk to Brendan Rodgers in the latest surprise development in the hunt for a new manager.

Sky Sports News reporter Jim White has tweeted that Villa are believed to be hoping to speak to Rodgers about the vacancy, despite the recent news that John Terry and Thierry Henry were close to being appointed.

White also suggests that Stiliyan Petrov is in the frame, a man who has been both Academy manager and first team coach with Villa since retiring from the game.

Rodgers yesterday ruled himself out of the running to take over at Villa Park, but it seems the owners are not looking to accept his first answer and will step up their pursuit of the former Liverpool man.

His Celtic side picked up a 6-0 away win at St Johnstone yesterday which, coupled with Rangers beating leaders Hearts 3-1, has elevated them to within three points of the Scottish Premier League summit.

The Verdict

Rodgers ruled himself out yesterday, but today Villa are wanting him? There's lots of rumours, exclusives and the like doing the rounds and it is hard to know how much is fact and how much conjecture.

Rodgers would be an interesting choice, knowing the division well and coming with a clear football philosophy. He's certainly be ahead of Henry and Terry in my choice for manager.

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