Former FC Groningen winger Leandro Bacuna admits Ron Vlaar was a big influence on his decision to sign for Aston Villa.

Bacuna has been impressed with the way the defender has settled in to life in England.

The Holland U21 international told the club's website: "In the Eredivisie I have played against him and he made a very good step to come to Aston Villa and now I am following in his footsteps.

"He is a really nice guy and has the attitude to be a captain and I think we can hang around together a lot.

"He is a hero in Holland. He is doing well and he is a good defender. It is really nice for me to have someone who can help me settle in.

"It is a new team and you are meeting a lot of players. It is good for yourself and good for everybody. It is a new beginning.

"I'm going to do my best. I'm going to try and make a lot of goals and be a fan favourite. The Premier League for me is the top level and everyone wants to play here."