Aston Villa CEO Tom Fox steps down

The American, who joined the club in 2014, departs with the claret and blues bottom of the Premier League and facing a seemingly inevitable relegation.

Fox had come under increasing scrutiny from supporters during the club's disastrous campaign, pressure which only increased last week when his salary of £1.25million was revealed in the club accounts.

His departure comes just 48 hours after that of sporting director Hendrik Almstadt, who was appointed by Fox last summer.

More exits are expected in the coming weeks, with the futures head of recruitment Paddy Riley and manager Remi Garde both uncertain.

In a statement, Fox pointed to a change in his role after board restructuring at Villa Park as being behind his decision.

He said: "Joining Aston Villa was a huge privilege for me and while I'm bitterly disappointed by results this season, watching the club compete at Wembley in the FA Cup Final last year is a memory I'll cherish.

"I'm appreciative to the board and the owner for the opportunity to help put Villa back on a solid footing and able to compete in the most competitive sports league in the world.

"Aston Villa is a proud and storied club which deserves to be among the elite in Europe and I have every confidence that it will once again find its way back.

"Regarding my resignation, the owner made it very clear last summer that he and I would seek to recruit a board that would put the club in a stronger position in the event that a sale didn't happen.

"As the board has taken shape, however, it has become clear that my role also has changed.

"While I am supportive of where the board is trying to take the club, it is my feeling that given the changes they are making, it makes sense for me to seek another challenge.

"I have accepted the board's invitation to remain available during a period of transition to ensure a smooth handover.

"I would like to thank the many among the Villa family that have been very kind with their time and support and generous to me on a personal level during my time with the club."

Fox left his role as Arsenal's chief commercial officer to join Villa but his time at the club was beset by problems.

After the club spent £55million last summer on players who have failed to deliver, the chief executive had become the focus of increasing fan ire. It was even claimed he had bodyguards with him at recent games.

Fox's resignation comes as chairman Steve Hollis, who replaced owner Randy Lerner on the board in January, continues to conduct an internal review at the Premier League's bottom club.

Former Football Association chairman David Bernstein was appointed to the board last week, with ex-Villa boss Brian Little an advisor.

Villa will now begin their search for Fox's replacement with Hollis becoming executive chairman in the interim.

Hollis said: "The board would like to place on record its appreciation to Tom for his many contributions and commitment over the last 18 months.

"While the results this season have been disappointing, he and his team have worked hard to put in place many changes necessary to put the club on a more sustainable path for the future.

"He leaves with our best wishes for the future."