Villa name their first-ever sporting director

The 40-year old German has moved to the West Midlands following a four-year spell with Arsenal where he previously worked alongside Villa chief executive Tom Fox.

Almstadt has experience working in the areas of technical scouting, data analytics, financial budgeting and contract management.

Fox said: "I'm really pleased to welcome Hendrik to Aston Villa. I was able to see firsthand the excellent work he did at Arsenal and he will add tremendous value across our entire football set-up."

Almstadt begins work officially at Bodymoor Heath on Monday and is looking forward to the new challenge.

He said: "I can't wait to start my new role. It is a club with huge potential, a rich history and deep roots in Birmingham, the Midlands, and within English and European football.

"I look forward to working again with Tom Fox and to establish a close relationship with the manager, Tim Sherwood."

Manager Tim Sherwood said: "I'm really excited Hendrik is joining. We have a lot of work to do at the football club and Hendrik will make the job I have here easier."