Source: Team_Talk
Koeman keen on Villa opportunity
Ronald Koeman has thrown his hat into the ring to become Aston Villa's manager and said he could deliver a top-four place if given the chance.[LNB] Villa are searching for a new boss following the shock resignation of Martin O'Neill on the eve of the new season.[LNB]Kevin MacDonald is currently operating in the role on a caretaker basis, but early optimism over his chances of taking the post full-time have faded after a 6-0 drubbing at Newcastle and their exit from the Europa League.[LNB]USA coach Bob Bradley has expressed a firm interest in the post and Koeman has now admitted he would relish the opportunity to take control.[LNB]The 47-year-old, who was axed as AZ Alkmaar coach in Holland after a brief spell at the end of last year, has previously been at the helm of Ajax, Benfica, PSV and Valencia. [LNB]He told the Daily Express: "In Holland we have always viewed Villa as an important club with a tradition of being powerful in Europe when I was younger, so I would be very interested in managing them if the job was offered to me. [LNB]"Even though the last two results have been painful blows, I also saw them take West Ham apart 3-0 and I enjoyed the playing style.[LNB]"One of the things I'd bring to Villa if I was in charge is the idea that winning is important in football, but winning while playing offensive football is the best of all. [LNB]"I love English football because of its brilliant atmosphere, intensity of the competition and the culture of respect that fans and players have for the game.[LNB]"I have been holding off and turning down offers simply because I want to coach in England and where better than Villa Park?" [LNB]Koeman believes if he is offered the post by Villa owner Randy Lerner then he would be able to guide the club into the top four in the Premier League and secure a place among Europe's elite.[LNB]"Villa have the perfect blend of talented young English players and experienced continental footballer, so I see no reason why they could not qualify for Champions League football next season," he added.[LNB]"I've coached in Holland, Portugal and Spain and not only won trophies each time, but taken sides to the latter stages of the Champions League.[LNB]"I'd like to match that with Villa if the job becomes available."
