Thomas Hitzlsperger backs Aston Villa's swoop for Joe Cole

The former claret and blues midfielder reckons the signing of Joe Cole will prove to be a masterstroke.

Lambert has turned his attention to adding more experience after previously targeting younger players and has signed Philippe Senderos and Cole.

He said: "I had great admiration for Paul Lambert with his philosophy of bringing in young players. Now is the next stage – bringing in a little more experience for the good of the group.

"Saying all that, there's no point having an older guy in there with bags of experience if he's not delivering for the team. Joe knows that he needs to get back to his best too. He will be aware of that, I'm sure."

Cole signed a two-year deal after joining on a free transfer following his release from West Ham and is expected to play in the No.10 role.

Villa have been searching for creativity and Hitzlsperger believes Cole fits the bill.

"Look at his football CV for a start - he has won the Premier League three times, three FA Cups, two League Cups and over 50 caps for England," said the former German international.

"I think playing as that No.10 is his best role - and it's the position he's been craving. Paul Lambert was looking for a No.10 and Joe Cole wants to play as a No.10 - so it's the perfect match.

"I believe he will go to Villa with plenty to look forward - a new challenge, a new club and a manager who wants to play him in the position he wants to play in. He must be excited.

"Just the name Joe Cole will boost the place too. The young lads will see him come into the training ground and be uplifted by that. He's a recognised, successful footballer who has done huge amounts in the game.

"The young lads will feel plenty of motivation training and playing with someone who has starred at the very highest level of football.

"He will be fantastic for Villa - I have no doubt about that."