Defender explains why joining Aston Villa was the right call

The Sweden international defender was one of three deadline day signings made by the club last month, agreeing a two-year deal.

Lindelof, a free agent after his seven-year stay at Manchester United at the end of last season, was in demand for much of the summer with Villa among several suitors.

The 31-year-old also had interest from the Saudi Pro League but believes returning to England and the Premier League was in the best interests of his family. 

He explained: “I had some interesting options that I talked to my family and agent about, but in the end, I ended up deciding that it was best to come back to England. I am very happy with that decision.

“I turned down a lot during the summer, but it turned out well in the end anyway. I felt it wasn’t right for the family and for me in terms of football.

“I’m not the type of person who wants to go to such a country (Saudi Arabia) and play football. From a family perspective, it doesn’t feel good for the children. I know that Maja, my wife, absolutely wouldn’t have wanted to move there. It was a pretty easy decision for me not to move there.”

Lindelof has made four substitute appearances so far for Villa, including three in midfield in the Premier League.