Aston Villa have confirmed that they have suspended chief executive Keith Wyness with immediate effect.

The Championship club announced the news on their official website but did not reveal why the decision was made.

"Aston Villa Football Club can confirm that chief executive Keith Wyness has been suspended by the club with immediate effect," read a statement from Villa.

"Owner and chairman, Dr Tony Xia will assume the role until further notice.

"There will be no further comment from the club at this time."

The news comes amid claims on social media from Sky city editor Mark Kleinman that Villa recently missed a tax payment and could face a winding-up order from the HMRC unless the matter is rectified.