Ronald Koeman has revealed he's been waving away offers because he wants to coach Aston Villa.
Martin O'Neill quit Villa Park on August 9 in a row over lack of investment and under the stewardship of Kevin MacDonald they have been thrashed 6-0 by Newcastle and crashed out of the Europa League to Rapid Vienna this week.
MacDonald is due to meet owner Randy Lerner on Monday to decide his future, but Koeman has been sounded out by Villa officials and last night he revealed his interest in the post.
Koeman 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. 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.
"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. 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.
"I have been holding off and turning down offers simply because I want to coach in England and where better than Villa Park?"
The Dutch great added: "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.
"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.
"I'd like to match that with Villa if the job becomes available."
