Villa board duo resign amid horrendous campaign

David Bernstein and Mervyn King announced Monday that they've resigned from Aston Villa's board of directors on the heels of the Birmingham club's relegation.

"It is with regret that Aston Villa Football Club today announces the resignations of Mervyn King and David Bernstein as directors of the Club," a statement on Villa's website said. "The Club would like to thank both for all their efforts throughout their short time as members of the Board."

King announced his resignation with the following letter:

Bernstein followed suit:

Villa, which was bought in 2006 by ex-Cleveland Browns owner Randy Lerner for £62.6 million, is mired in its worst top-flight campaign since finishing 22nd in the Premier League's predecessor, Division 1, in 1986-87. The club's relegation became official following Saturday's defeat at Manchester United.

The American's involvement in the club has been the focal point of protests from Villa supporters dismayed by his lack of investment in the team. Villa has won seven top-flight titles, but none since 1980-81.

Lerner put the team up for sale in May 2014 at an evaluation of £200 million, adding further issues to a once-storied club.

"The Chairman, Steve Hollis, is currently engaged in extensive negotiations in relation to the sale of the Club," the statement added.