Football: Moyes pulls out of race to become Aston Villa boss

David Moyes has pulled out of the running to become the new Aston Villa manager, according to reports by BBC Sport.

Moyes, 53, was on a three-man shortlist to replace Remi Garde and was on a three-man shortlist.

However, he has withdrawn but Nigel Pearson - the preferred choice of outgoing chairman Steve Hollis - and Roberto Di Matteo remain in the frame.

The fundamental issue for Moyes is believed to be the drop down to the Championship, where Villa will play next season.

The former Manchester United, Real Sociedad and Everton manager also had reservations about Villa's wish for a swift decision over the role, as a result of the hectic summer that lies ahead for the club's football department.

One of the attractions of the Villa job for Moyes was the prospect of working again with Keith Wyness, who is to be appointed the club’s chief executive.

He held the same role at Everton for five years, and the two worked together well.

Villa hope to confirm their new manager by the end of this week, with Pearson and Di Matteo - both of whom are without a club - having been interviewed by Hollis.