D-Day looms for Kevin MacDonald
Thursday 26th August 2010, 11:59AM BST.
Caretaker boss Kevin MacDonald has confirmed Monday will be D-Day for his long-awaited verdict on the Villa job – after another big European gamble.
MscDonald, who will this evening attempt to guide Villa into the Europa League Group Stages at the expense of Rapid Vienna, is unsure whether he wants to be considered for the post permanently.
But the caretaker has revealed he will make a decision within 24 hours of Sunday’s showdown with Everton.
MacDonald said: “We have decided that if we waited until after the Everton game it would not give too much unrest.
“They have a two-week break and if I decide it is for me and I want to be considered I’ll hopefully get an interview, to speak to the owner and pass on my thoughts and how I would like to take the club forward.
“If it’s not for me, all the other people that have been considered will get their interviews.
“Is Monday D-Day? Probably, yes.”
A clean sheet in tonight’s play-off second leg at Villa Park is certain to put Villa through following last week’s 1-1 draw in Austria.
But MacDonald has risked controversy by leaving out key quartet Richard Dunne, Stephen Warnock, Luke Young and Stewart Downing.
MacDonald said: “Richard is not playing. He has this on-going thing with his back. Obviously we have James Collins and Carlos returning.
“Richard also had his house broken into the same day as the Newcastle game so it has been a bit traumatic.
“I’ve also given Stewart Downing, Luke Young and Stephen Warnock a bit more time off.”
MacDonald also rejected suggestions that incoming transfers are on hold until a new manager is appointed.
“I don’t think it is on hold,” he added. “Our scouts are still watching games two or three times a week.”
MacDonald confirmed there has been no contact from Leicester regarding Emile Heskey.
He said: “I worked with Emile as a young boy at Leicester and I’ve got a lot of time for him. I’ve not had any talks with Leicester.
“Villa need as many good players as they can and then to develop some other ones as well.”
UK Sport
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