Villa losses more than £81m

Aston Villa recorded a loss of more than £81 million for the last financial year, according to the club’s latest accounts.

The figures for the 2015-16 period show that with an operating loss of £81.3m the deficit more than trebled, up from £26.6m, before Villa were relegated from the Premier League.

The club’s statement states losses of £79.6m due to “exceptional items” but provides little explanation as to what these are, other than to say “for the impairment of tangible fixed assets and intangible assets”.

Turnover fell from £115.7m in 2014-15 to £108.8m, with the club attributing the drop in revenue to a reduction in their share of the FA Premier League’s broadcasting agreements.

Villa were relegated from the Premier League for the first time last season.