STEVE CLARKE has taken over the reigns at Aston Villa after Roberto Di Matteo was sacked by the Midlands club.
Villa have parted company with Di Matteo after just 123 days as they struggle towards the bottom of the Skybet Championship.
Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Preston made it just one win from 11 league matches as Villa’s woes continue following last season’s relegation from the top flight.
The Italian has left with Villa 19th in the league table despite spending around £50million in the summer.
Di Matteo was appointed in June with a remit to gain an instant return to the Premier League after relegation last season but won just one of his 12 games in charge.
Scottish coach Clarke , who was Di Matteo’s assistant, has been appointed as caretaker.