Aston Villa's new goalkeeper Brad Guzan is delighted to join the American keepers contingent in the Premiership.

The 6ft 4in shot-stopper, currently away with the USA at the Beijing Olympics, said: "Growing up as an American goalkeeper, you see the likes of Brad (Friedel), Tim (Howard), Kasey (Keller) and Marcus (Hahnemann) doing well.

"Being able to follow in their footsteps is truly a dream come true.

"I dreamt of making saves like Brad in the Premier League so now being able to have a chance to do the same is unbelievable.

"They have set the bar so high and I look forward to trying to make my mark.

"The Premier League is huge in the United States. It's one of the biggest leagues in the world and I think it will continue to improve. I am so excited to be part of it."

The former Chivas USA star insists that consistency and reliability are the watchwords of any goalkeeper.

"It's about being consistent and being a guy who the team can count on.

"If we are tied 0-0 in the last minute and I need to make a big save, you want the defenders to look back at you and know that they rely on you to make that important stop.

"They should have total confidence in you."