Aston Villa's hands-off chairman and owner Randy Lerner is set to assume the hands-on role of chief executive officer at Villa Park.Apparently determined to take an active involvement in the club's day-to-day affairs, Lerner is reported to be ready to fill the post made vacant by Richard FitzGerald's shock resignation in January.

According to The Guardian, 'The US billionaire, who completed a £67million takeover in August 2006, will establish a permanent residence in the Midlands next season, enabling him to have a greater influence. It is possible that Lerner will not give himself the official title, but sources have made it clear that the Villa owner will take on the post's day-to-day responsibilities.'

Lerner's closer involvement is bound to be welcomed by the club's supporters, although his popularity will ultimately be determined by the size of the funds he makes available for manager Martin O'Neill this summer.

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