Premier League: Sacked Villa boss Paul Lambert reveals how Randy Lerner reduced player budget

Paul Lambert has issued a statement through the League Managers Association (LMA) revealing Aston Villa owner Randy Lerner reduced his players' budget despite setting him a target of staying in the Premier League.

Lambert was sacked by Aston Villa on Wednesday, a day after the 2-0 loss to Hull saw the club slip into the Premier League relegation zone for the first time this season.

"I am extremely proud to have managed Aston Villa, a founder member of the Football League, and this sentiment will always remain with me," Lambert's statement read.

When I came on board, the club's owner, Randy Lerner, warned me that I was embarking on the toughest challenge of my working life and he was not wrong.

"My initial remit was to conduct a massive overhaul of the playing squad, lower the overall wage structure of the playing staff and achieve this whilst keeping the club in the Barclays Premier League.

"There was also a concerted effort to purchase and develop younger players who would provide a solid footing for the football club to move forward and enhance the value of the playing squad in the future.

"When I came on board, the club's owner, Randy Lerner, warned me that I was embarking on the toughest challenge of my working life and he was not wrong.

"But I have never stepped away from hard work and I put my heart and soul into the job from my first day until my last.

"There are many people throughout my time at Aston Villa to whom I owe a great debt of gratitude.

"Firstly, I'd like to thank Randy Lerner for not only providing me with the opportunity to manage one of the most illustrious clubs in world football but also for the support and friendship he offered me throughout my time at the club.

"I'd also like to place on record my appreciation to Paul Faulkner who conducted affairs at the club with unstinting integrity and constant dignity during his tenure as Chief Executive.

"I leave behind some wonderful people at both Bodymoor Heath and Villa Park and express my gratitude for their dedication and loyalty. A special mention must also go to my coaching staff for their commitment."