Doug Ellis says the future is bright for Aston Villa

Jun 25 2009 by Bill Howell, Birmingham Mail

“I put money aside for what is now the Academy and brought in Frank Upton, who had coached my son at Repton School.

“It was only £10,000 but it was enough for, although not immediately, the likes of Brian Little, Gordon Cowans and Jimmy Brown to come through.

“So it’s all about having a structure in place, including youth development.

“Youths alone will not win you anything but you ca get the right mix between experienced players and good youths, with one or two getting a taste for it and progressing.”

Ellis admits Villa have been faced with similar tests throughout his three decades in office where they have been challenged to make that extra yard to take club further.

“That’s true but at the same time you have to look at the overall picture,” he adds.

“Villa have remained a member of the Premier League right the very beginning.

“At all times they have been stable with little or no bank debt at all.”

Ellis adds he has no wish to interfere in Villa business any longer and would not wish to appear to be telling the current incumbents what to do.

“I made a promise to myself that I wouldn’t interfere once I had shaken hands with Randy Lerner, and I haven’t interfered,’’ he said.

“By and large he has kept his promise and I am delighted I chose him ahead of the other four predators.’’