Lambert: Aston Villa to hold talks

Lambert has emerged as the leading target for the Villa Park vacancy and Sky Sports revealed on Wednesday that the Midlands side were ready to make an official approach.

It is understood that the highly-regarded Scottish boss had a row with the Canaries board on Wednesday night, which could hasten his departure for Villa.

The Villans have been searching for a new manager following their decision to axe Alex McLeish earlier this month after just one unhappy season at the helm.

Lambert has earned plaudits throughout the game for his achievements with the Canaries as he guided the Carrow Road club to back-to-back promotions before enjoying an impressive first season in the Premier League.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Roberto Martinez were earlier in the frame for the Villa job, with the former Manchester United striker opting to stay with Molde, while Wigan's Martinez is due to remain at the DW Stadium despite also being linked with Liverpool.

Villa chairman Randy Lerner stated when McLeish was axed that he was looking to bring in a "new manager who sees the club's potential and embraces our collective expectations".

And it appears that Lambert fits the bill, despite the Canaries previously vowing they would fight to retain his services and the former Colchester, Wycombe and Livingston boss stating recently he was happy in his current post.