Ranson reveals Villa plans

Former Manchester City defender Ray Ranson has confirmed he is considering a bid for Aston Villa.

A statement released to the stock exchange on Tuesday morning revealed that Ranson is weighing up an approach for the Midlands club but any bid is very much in the process of development.

The statement said: "Mr Ray Ranson confirms that he is working on a proposal that may or may not lead to an approach being made to the board of Aston Villa plc for a possible offer for the company by Mr Ranson and others.

"It should be noted that this is at a very early stage and an approach may not prove to be possible."

Supporters' groups have long demanded under-fire chairman and majority shareholder Doug Ellis step down.

But the 81-year-old has constantly knocked back any attempts to buy control of Villa and a £30million bid from a consortium including Ranson was rejected 14 months ago.

However, Ellis' health is now a major factor in whether he can retain his grip on Villa following triple heart bypass surgery earlier this month.

Supporters groups believe this would be an ideal time for Ellis to walk away - for the sake of his own health and that of Villa, who have not automatically qualified for Europe for seven years.

Ranson made contact with VFC when he made his failed bid in April 2004 and it remains to be seen whether he again opts to sound out the views of supporters before any potential offer is put in for Villa.