Aston Villa slam European Super League as 'sinister scheme'

Plans for a new breakaway competition have been much-maligned and are now starting to crumble, with clubs now reportedly looking to back out.

And Villa's statement on the proposals read: "Aston Villa stands alongside all the clubs, supporters groups and the entire football family who have condemned the plans to create a so-called European Super League.

"We are not standing idly by allowing the dreams of Aston Villa fans to be taken away by this sinister scheme.

"Working along with fellow members of the Premier League and its board we have today agreed to consider a range of punitive actions against those clubs and their executives who are involved.

"We are reassured by the UK government’s position and the range of legislative options under consideration to do whatever it takes to prevent this scheme from becoming a reality."