Angel goals sink Ipswich

If Villa manager John Gregory had ever really contemplated selling Juan Pablo Angel to raise funds for a title push, it is a move he can no longer dare contemplate.

Indeed, after the £ 9million Colombian striker's two goals put Villa back in the title hunt last night, Gregory admitted: 'If I were to sell him now I'd probably be lynched - Juan is a hero who has the fans on his side.'

Angel's goals - in the 44th and 70th minute - transformed the match after Ipswich had looked like pulling off a surprise win to ease their worries in the Premiership basement.

A stunning goal by Nigerian Finidi George in the 18th minute put Ipswich ahead but It was not enough to stop Villa gaining their first win in seven matches and moving to within six points of the Premiership summit. However, Gregory said: 'I would love to think of the title but it was evident tonight that we don't have the quality in depth that other clubs possess.

'We are not title contenders. It's OK having 21 or 22 players in the squad but not unless they're good enough to compete with those strong outfits that are at the top of the Premiership.''

In what may be perceived as another dig at Villa chairman Doug Ellis, Gregory added: 'I am just the manager and I don't control the finances. Maybe if we had speculated a bit when we went top of the table in October we could have stayed nearer the top.'

Chairman Ellis refused him the £8m he wanted to sign Leicester midfielder Muzzy Izzet and, significantly, following that Villa went six games without a League victory and dropped into eighth place, where they remain despite last night's win.