Aston Villa supporters hold banners of protest during a recent Premier League game

Aston Villa have scrapped their Player of the Year awards on the back of supporter unrest and near-certain relegation.

Some Villa players have been openly jeered by sections of their own support during an eight-match losing run that means they could be condemned to the Championship this weekend.

And a club spokesman said: "The club will not be holding its annual Player of the Year awards at the conclusion of this season. In the current circumstances, we are sure our supporters will understand."

Villa have won just three times in the Premier League and are currently looking for a third manager of the season after the departures of Tim Sherwood and Remi Garde.

Relegation will be confirmed if Norwich avoid defeat against Sunderland in Saturday's early game.