Share

Saints boss criticised over Vlaar pursuit

London - Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert spoke out to criticise Ronald Koeman on Tuesday after the Southampton head coach expressed an interest in signing Villa captain Ron Vlaar.

Koeman, who managed Vlaar at Feyenoord, has revealed that he would "really like" to bring the Netherlands centre-back to St Mary's, and Lambert believes he was wrong to go public with his admiration of the player.

"I think he is disrespecting when talking about other team's players when they are still their players. I think that's wrong," the Villa manager told Sky Sports.

"I wouldn't mind if he picked up the phone, but you don't go public on it. That's the thing that annoyed me the most and the stance is still exactly the same with Ron."

Vlaar, who shone for Holland at the World Cup in Brazil, has one year let to run on his current contract, but Villa are reportedly planning to offer him a new deal.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE