HE MAY have just been pipped to his dream job as Aston Villa manager but Leamington lad Charlie Pye got a message he’ll never forget this week.
The six-year-old avid Villa fan received a letter from Tim Sherwood informing him he’d been narrowly ‘pipped at the post’, after he wrote to chief executive Tom Fox offering his services when Paul Lambert was sacked in February.
In his application letter Charlie said all he wanted for payment was a signed claret and blue football, a wrestling figure and some sweets and he said he would appoint his mum and dad as backroom staff.
“I never expected a letter from the manager but I was absolutely delighted to get one,” said Charlie, who is captain of Norton Lindsey juniors.
“What he wrote was brilliant – it meant a lot to me. Even the stuff about congratulating me on being a captain was really special.
“I was really happy when he got the job because of his passion and I love him even more now. I think he will do brilliantly for the Villa.”
In his response Sherwood told Charlie: “From your letter it is clear to see that you would indeed be an ideal candidate for the job due to your knowledge of the game – and your very capable backroom staff, of course.
“Hopefully you’re not too disappointed at missing out and I’m informed that I just managed to pip you to the post so you were very close to being offered the job.
“Our chief executive Tom Fox has informed me that the club would like your permission to keep the letter on file ‘just in case’ – although I’m hoping I will be successful at this great football club.
“I will certainly be aiming to make you and all the other supporters happy.
“In terms of your football career, I want to wish Norton Lindsey every success this season. Well done on being appointed captain. I was a captain during my own playing career – it’s a special honour.”
Tim Sherwood said Villa would be keeping Charlie’s letter on file ‘just in case’. (s)
