Randy Lerner has revealed that he is determined to find a buyer for Aston Villa this year.

The American entrepreneur took over Villa in 2006 but is eager to sell Villa sometime in 2015 after having the West Midlands club on the market for around a year.

Lerner is aware of unrest from the supporters during such a time of uncertainty but insists that plans are in place for a change of ownership to take place in the not-too-distant future.

"I don't disagree with the (fans) criticism," he told The Times. "And what I should have done several years back was bring in a chairman.

"Yes, the club remains for sale. But as we've seen, 'Club for sale' does not necessarily mean it will change hands so fast.

"I have had interest from nearly every corner of the globe. Germans, Italians, Americans and Chinese among others have expressed interest in and fondness for the Villa.

"The key of course is to try to put the club in custodial hands that can take the club forward. Resources and competence and a willingness to immerse themselves in the local fabric.

"Last year at this time I had a plan A which was to sell, and a plan B, which was to rethink the club's business management , which has led to the hiring of Tom Fox (as chief executive). This year plan A remains to find a buyer if on the cards or, plan B, find a new chairman."