Gardner inks Villa deal

Aston Villa midfielder Craig Gardner has signed a new four year contract at the club. A series of impressive appearances have seen Martin O'Neill make the youngster a contract offer, which he today accepted.

"I was thrilled to get the offer of this new deal and, to be fair, the manager has really looked after me," Gardner told the Birmingham Mail.

"I've been at Aston Villa since I was a youngster and I'm thrilled to be securing my future with the club.

"It is great to secure this deal now and it means I can just get my head down and focus on my game."