Shaun Maloney insists he is committed to establishing himself at Aston Villa.

Maloney had expressed homesickness for Scotland during the summer market, but told Villa's website yesterday: "It's a challenge to get in the side. Ashley was immense against Fulham, Gabby and John have been playing regularly while Marlon has come in and will be eager to make his mark.

"There is real competition for places but that's good.

"I want to play every game. No footballer is in the game to be a substitute. You work every day in training and it's not to sit on the bench at the weekend.

"When you get an opportunity to play you've got to do as well as you can. But that's not all you have to do. When you get into the side you've got to keep performing because there are players after your place."