No worries over Aston Villa, says Brett Holman

Brett Holman today insisted he had no reservations about joining Aston Villa even though the manager who originally signed him has since been sacked.

The 28-year-old Australia international was persuaded to leave AZ Alkmaar on a Bosman transfer by former Villa boss Alex McLeish only to see the ex-Birmingham boss shown the exit door.

But midfield playmaker Holman's mind was put at ease by new chief Paul Lambert who is set to hand him his debut in Villa's first pre-season friendly at Burton tomorrow.

"It hasn't really affected me at all. Obviously, it's a bit of a strange circumstance because I signed for somebody else, but I've spoken to the new manager and he's reassured me and told me to give it everything, like everybody else," said Holman.

"I'm happy. There's been a couple of months waiting after the deal was done, but it's good to be here to start training with the guys and get cracking on a new season.

"It was great to have a word with the new manager. He said I'm part of his plans, but that I have to show myself otherwise he's not going to pick me – that's normal."