Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has told Nicky Shorey he can leave Villa Park.

The Sun says the bombshell decision was made after the pair held showdown talks last Friday.

Shorey's patience snapped over his lack of first-team action.

He has featured in just 12 Premier League games this season since joining from relegated Reading.

A Villa insider said: "It is nothing personal. But sometimes a move just doesn't work out.

"Nicky wants out and Martin is happy for him to go."

West Ham have been consistently linked with Shorey.

The Hammers fan was born in Essex and started his playing career with Leyton Orient. But the cash-strapped Irons cannot afford him at the moment and a return to East London is out of the question.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is a contender to snap up Shorey for around £2m.