Villa legend and Express & Star columnist Ian Taylor says he is looking forward to the “fantastic challenge” of new role as an ambassador for the club.

Taylor has been appointed by the claret and blues hierarchy and will help the club in a number of areas with specific business and corporate responsibilities.

“It’s been an amazing journey for me,” said Taylor.

“I’ve been a fan, a player and now I’m going behind-the-scenes to help on the commercial side of things. I’m really looking forward to it.

“I’ve been doing a little bit of work with the club anyway so this new position is really an extension of that.

“I thought it would be great to get involved with this magnificent club again and I’m delighted it’s come to fruition.

“The great thing is I love the club and I will have the best interests of Villa at heart as I go about my work. The ambassador role is perfect.

“I love dealing with people face to face, I am a people person so it’s a fantastic challenge and one I can’t wait to start.”

Villa chief executive Paul Faulkner added: “There’s only a small bracket of former players who will live long in the memory of supporters over the generations for their dedication, commitment and long service — and Ian is certainly one of those.

“For these reasons there can be no better candidate for this new role.”