Relegation fails to deter lucrative new kit deal for Villa

DESPITE its relegation from the Premier League, Aston Villa has been able to secure a lucrative new kit deal.

The club, which begins its campaign in the Championship next month, has signed up to the Under Armour brand.

The five-year deal extends to the club’s new home, away and goalkeeping kits, plus training wear.

The kit will be worn over the pre-season period and for the first time competitively in the opening Sky Bet Championship fixture against Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday, August 7.

The strips will include a new crest, alongside a back neck label bearing the motto ‘Pride, Passion, Purpose’.

Die hard supporters will be hoping they see more evidence of all three than they did in the club’s deplorable campaign last season with cost two managers their jobs and saw the club relegated from the top flight for the first time in more than 30 years.

Keith Wyness, chief executive, Aston Villa, said: “We are delighted to have signed a long term deal with such an innovative brand as Under Armour.

“As a club, we share similar ambitions as Under Armour and will, therefore, be able to pull together to get us back to the top tier of English football, where we belong.”

Peter Murray, vice president Global Sports Marketing at Under Armour, added: “We are proud to partner with such a prestigious club as Aston Villa and our new partnership marks the start of an illustrious five years for us both.”