Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel admits it was difficult to leave Blackburn Rovers.

He said: "It was very difficult to leave Blackburn, probably the hardest thing I have had to do in football. I was there for eight tremendous years.

"But the total package at Villa just felt right for me. On the field I felt I wanted a new challenge. I feel a bit rejuvenated which is important when you get to my stage in my career. I would not say I was getting stale but there was the definite feeling I needed to move on for myself and the club. Maybe I wasn't getting the best out of myself anymore.

"I have to prove myself again at Villa and that is something I have not had to do for a long time. I believe that is a feeling that any footballer would thrive on. Rovers will have a great season, I am sure of that. I also expect them to enjoy success under Paul Ince."