Huge clearout at Aston Villa

Aston Villa have begun preparations for the new season with a mass clearout of their squad. Jean II Makoun has left for Rennes, whilst Richard Dunne, Eric Lichaj and Andy Marshall have all been released.

Aston Villa's manager Paul Lambert hinted that he would be ready to part company with some of his squad in an effort to free up funds for new signings this summer.


The departure of Dunne comes as some surprise, as the centre back had been expected to be offered a new contract.


Meanwhile, Makoun has returned to France after failing to impress in England.