Aston Villa suspend Ian Culverhouse and Gary Karsa pending internal investigation
Villa also confirm they have promoted Shay Given and Gordon Cowans to assist manager Paul Lambert
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Aston Villa have suspended assistant manager Ian Culverhouse and head of football operations Gary Karsa pending an internal investigation, and have announced the temporary promotion of Gordon Cowans and Shay Given to the first team coaching staff.
A statement released by the club on Tuesday read: “The club can confirm that Gordon Cowans and Shay Given have been temporarily promoted to assist manager Paul Lambert and his first team coaching staff.
“The club can also confirm in response to media speculation that Ian Culverhouse and Gary Karsa have been suspended pending an internal investigation.”
Manager Paul Lambert said he was “delighted” with the appointment of Cowans and Given, and did not comment on why his regular coaches had been suspended.
Lambert said: “I'm delighted to have Gordon and Shay to assist me in preparing the team for Saturday which is what the whole group is focused on.”
Cowans, who made over 400 appearances during three spells with Villa, said: “The manager has asked me to step up to assist him at this time and I'll do my utmost for the Club and the manager in helping prepare the team for Saturday's game against Southampton.”
37-year-old Given, who was on loan with Championship side Middlesbrough until February this year, said he was “delighted” to be given a chance to help Lambert. The Republic of Ireland great has not made a single appearance for Villa this season.
"As players, it's important that each and every one of us take responsibility right now and I'm delighted to play my part in helping the manager and the team go and try to win on Saturday,” said Given.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments