The Next Andy Townsend (?) Extends

Now this is good news, Villa midfielder Craig Gardner, who seemed to blossom at the end of last season and looks a tough and uncompromising player, has signed a new four-year contract keeping him at Villa Park until 2011.

The graduate of the much heralded Academy, who is expected to play right-back tomorrow, told the official site of his delight.

'I've been at the club for six years and this is the biggest moment of my career so far. The manager has been a massive influence and he's been behind me all the way and filled me with loads of confidence. So to be able to sign a four-year contract with Villa is fantastic.'

He also says that he has timed it perfectly coming through with a great set-up and training facilities adding, 'the ambition to be successful here is tremendous.'

The Villa boss said 'It's great to agree this deal with Craig - he's earned it. He's a player with tremendous potential and now I expect him to fulfil that potential with us here at Aston Villa.'

Gardner is tough in the tackle, not afraid to get forward and has a good shot on him. Maybe the next Andy Townsend for Villa? God knows we've missed Andy Townsend and never really replaced him!!