Villa step up Lambert chase

Aston Villa are set to meet with Paul Lambert's representatives amid reports the Norwich manager has resigned from his post at Carrow Road, Press Association Sport understands.

It is understood that Villa approached Norwich on Wednesday for permission to speak to Lambert but a section of the Norwich board are thought to have blocked the move, prompting the Scot's decision to quit.

Norwich have made no comment on the position of Lambert, who has steered them to two promotions and a mid-table finish in the Barclays Premier League, but Villa are hopeful they can finalise a compensation package with the Canaries for the 42-year-old who is on a rolling contract and fill the vacancy created by the sacking of Alex McLeish.

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