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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer storm over Aston Villa trip

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will today face tough questions about his designs on the Aston Villa manager's job after talks with Randy Lerner caused a storm back in his native Norway.

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will today face tough questions about his designs on the Aston Villa manager's job after talks with Randy Lerner caused a storm back in his native Norway.

In a whirlwind 24 hours Solskjaer was whisked over to Birmingham in Lerner's private jet for discussions with the American owner but his decision to speak to Villa saw chaos break out at his current club Molde.

In particular his decision to travel to Villa has caused an issue with Molde's major backers – industrial investment company Aker – who launched a stinging attack on the former Manchester United striker and astonishingly pledged to withdraw their financial support for the club.

Molde chairman Oystein Neerland said: "Solskjaer has disappointed us and our trust has been put to the test. We're not considering sacking him but we'll have a constructive conversation."

Solskjaer will speak to Molde chiefs today as he prepares to take training ahead of their match tomorrow and may give an indication of where his future lies in a pre-match press conference.

"I can confirm I've spoken with Villa. There were no negotiations, but an informal chat. They also have other candidates they want to talk to," said Solskjaer.

"I wanted to show respect for one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League by responding to their questions with an initial talk. I am the manager of Molde and have only had a casual conversation."

Despite the hype surrounding Solskjaer's arrival yesterday the club are still in the process of interviewing candidates on their shortlist.

A club statement said: "We are aware that certain individuals have been linked with our managerial vacancy but, out of respect to all potential candidates and any clubs they may currently be employed by, we will not discuss specific individuals by name."

One of those candidates to be interviewed by Villa is Norwich boss Paul Lambert who will hold talks with the club early next week.