After today's 4-0 loss to Manchester City Paul Lambert was asked about the future of Aston Villa and when fans could expect to hear from Randy Lerner. Here's what he had to say:
Lambert says he is waiting for Randy Lerner to make statement. "He'll decide. It's a bit different . . but I respect him"
— Daniel Taylor (@DTguardian) May 7, 2014
The part that most Villa fans, myself included, latched onto was the middle there. "It's a bit different." What in the world does that even mean?
Of course, Lambert could be saying that the entire situation surrounding the club is a bit different, and he wouldn't be wrong. It's weird to know that in a few days you (with "you" here being the manager, players, fans, and everybody associated with the club) with likely find out the fate of the entire club. We're all awaiting Lerner's statement with bated breath.
But there is the potential that the "it" in "it's different" could mean whatever Lerner has in mind for the club. Given the way he's been talking lately–calling for more money, acting as if he may have a job next year–it wouldn't surprise me if Lambert knew all or part of what Lerner has in mind. And then we have to ask, if he does know, what makes it different and why is it different enough to demand respect to accept?
Perhaps a joint-ownership? An ownership in which Lerner becomes a silent partner? A sale that takes place over an odd time span? Weird terms of sale?
There is literally no way to know what this means. I'm speculating. You're speculating. We're all dying to know what could be happening. Lambert may well be hinting at something, and he may have just been running his mouth after a tough match.
The good news is that we don't have to wait much longer. Sunday is just a few days offs, and we're being led to expect that we can hear from Lerner shortly after the season is done. It'll be great to finally solve this mystery.