Results are not the reason for my resignation Graham Taylor Photos from Taylor's career

Former England boss Taylor had been seeking talks with Villa chairman Doug Ellis to demand a clear-out of expensive stars.

But he has now decided to bring his second spell at Villa Park to an end.

"Contrary to what may be perceived, playing results are not the reason for my resignation," he said. "I had always believed that last season was going to be one of transition, particularly in respect of emerging young players.

"I would however point out that modern football, with its well publicised financial pressures, involves much wider issues than mere playing matters and those are a major factor in my decision."

TAYLOR'S VILLA RECORD First spell (1987-90) Games in charge: 142 Won: 65 Drawn: 35 Lost: 42 Second spell (2002-03) Games in charge: 60 Won: 19 Drawn: 14 Lost: 27 Comment: Taylor sold short

Taylor only rejoined Villa in February 2002 and Ellis confirmed the board would now seek applications for his successor.

The 58-year-old had a three-year stint in charge between 1987 and 1990 before leaving to succeed Sir Bobby Robson as England manager.

Taylor, who had just over one year left of his contract, has had a difficult time in his first full season back at Villa Park.

He came under verbal attack from players, including �5.6m Alpay and the club's record signing, �9.5m Juan Pablo Angel - both of whom are desperate to quit Villa.

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The decision to quit will have been agonising for Taylor, who had hoped to bring through Villa's exciting crop of young players.

First team coach Stuart Gray admitted Taylor's resignation came "completely out of the blue."

Gray told this website: "It was a complete shock.

"I was going in for a meeting with him today and he hadn't given any indication.

"He has been in to see us since he resigned an he outlined his reasons to us.

"But we will just have to carry on, planning the pre-season."