It is undeniable that results have been poor: Villa have won only one match in the league, against bottom-of-the-table Crystal Palace. However, they have had tough fixtures, playing all of the top four away from home, and their performances have been far more positive than the results would lead you to believe.

Robert de Pauw’s departure from his role as Aston Villa’s women’s team manager on Wednesday came amid ­concerns regarding the way he had allegedly spoken to his players, including about their appearance, the Guardian has been told.

Aston Villa have parted ways with manager Robert de Pauw after one win from the first nine Women's Super League (WSL) games this season.

Aston Villa have sacked their women’s first-team manager Robert de Pauw. The Dutchman departs with Villa sitting ninth in the Women’s Super League with just one victory from their opening nine league fixtures,

Aston Villa Women have sacked manager Robert de Pauw, the Women's Super League club said on Wednesday, with the side in ninth place with only one win after nine games. The 43-year-old's exit comes after their 4-0 loss to Arsenal over the weekend which left them one point above bottom-placed Crystal Palace.

Robert De Pauw leaves Aston Villa after less than six months in charge following Sunday's 4-0 defeat by Arsenal.

Aston Villa women's manager Robert de Pauw has left the club after just six months in charge, amid alleged concerns over how he had spoken to players.