Thomas Sorensen hasn't given up re-establishing himself as Aston Villa's first-choice goalkeeper.

Sorensen told the Birmingham Mail: "This is a massive challenge for me now. I'm third in the pecking order, so there's a fair way to go.

"But I'm a professional. I'll get my head down, work hard and see where that takes me. A lot of things can happen and I have to make sure I prepare as well as I can. If I'm needed, I'll be there.

"I've said all along that I am here to fight for my place. I will do my absolute best and I think anyone who sees me in training can see that."

And Sorensen is more than happy to turn out for the reserves as it helps keep him fit and provides important match practice should he be called upon by manager Martin O'Neill.

He added: "Anything can happen in football. You just have to be patient and wait for your chance. I'll see what happens.

"I'm training full pelt and I've been doing that for quite a while now. So, I'll do anything to impress and hopefully I can force my way back in.

"Playing for the reserves gives me the chance to get back out there, to get my bearings, make a few saves and get important match practice."