Keith Wyness: Villa need strong leadership

The 58-year-old, whose appointment was expected to be officially confirmed today. Wyness was previously chief executive at both Aberdeen and Everton.

It promises to be very much "hands-on" as he attempts to get Villa back on track following relegation from the Premier League.

He believes it's his experiences at the latter in particular which will stand him in good stead for the challenge awaiting at Villa Park.

He said: "There's a need for somebody who really understands this club. Everton is the most relevant experience I have got and when I arrived there it was in a bit of a state.

"It took some time to get things back. We created an internal team and responded to the leadership they were given and we got it back on track. I see the same thing at Villa.

"The staff are really keen to get some proper leadership and get the club back on the front foot and innovate quickly.

"The previous owner had a different view on things. It's pretty obvious he took a backwards stance on things.

"That won't be the case with me. I will here full time and hands-on."

Villa were regarded as a shambles both on and off the pitch last term.

Wyness, who expects to have his appointment ratified by the Football League today, does not believe a major shake-up is necessarily required.

He is acutely aware, however, of the need to build bridges with supporters left disillusioned by one of the worst season's in club history.

The news season ticket sales have already surpassed the club's original 14,000 forecast though Wyness knows it is results which will ultimately make the biggest difference.

He said: "It's about deeds not words. Every club has heard new chairman coming in, promising the world and delivering an atlas. But we have to do it right. We need it as quickly as possible."

Executive chairman Steve Hollis, who oversaw the sale of the club, is expected to formally depart in the next days.