Friday 8 April 2016 14:42, UK
Aston Villa's most important signing has to be a new managerial appointment, Paul Merson told the Fantasy Football Club podcast.
The Premier League mainstays could have their relegation confirmed this weekend, if the Villans fail to match Norwich's result, confirming what has been on the cards for much of the season.
Villa welcome Bournemouth to the Midlands on Saturday, who have looked to be already thinking about their summer holidays, but the way that Villa are slipping out of the league with little more than a whimper, fans will head to Villa Park fearing the worst.
Speaking on the Fantasy Football Club podcast, Paul Merson is looking ahead to next season already, and believes Villa have to think long and hard when appointing a successor to Remi Garde.
"Their biggest signing is their next manager," Merson said. "[David] Moyes, [Nigel] Pearson or [Mick] McCarthy would sort them out.
"I'd like to see Ian Taylor involved at the club, not just as ambassador but properly involved. He loves the club, he is a big Villa fan, the fans love him."
Merson also admitted to be saddened by the manner in which Villa have surrendered this season, and cannot see anything other than a defeat this weekend.
"There are ways to lose a football match, going down fighting," Merson added. "Villa just lost against Chelsea last week, there was nothing there.
"It was a walk in the park for Chelsea. Half the players don't play usually.
"Villa could get relegated at the start of April. Unbelievable. Bournemouth will win on Saturday."
