Olof Mellberg says he's leaving Aston Villa in great shape.

Mellberg is joining Juventus in the summer and told the Birmingham Mail: "I think there are exciting times ahead for Villa.

"Villa are definitely looking at that fifth spot. I have said before that I have not really been obsessed with playing European football, but it has always been a goal to get there.

"It has always been such an achievement to get to Europe through the Premiership. If I was obsessed with playing European football I would have gone to a smaller league and play there every year.

"People taking teams into Europe through the Premiership is such an achievement in itself and that is what we are looking at now. And if European football arrives next season, hopefully we can do well."

Mellberg believes the likes of Ashley Young and Gabby Agbonlahor can thrive at the club on the European stage.

"I think the way we have performed and the way those young lads have enjoyed their football this season, it bodes well for the future."