Aston Villa defender Martin Laursen is looking forward to returning to European club football.

The former AC Milan centre-half told Villa's website: "I suppose it's going to be a long season - with a return to action in July. But it should also be an interesting season.

"We did well last season and qualified for the Intertoto Cup so now we have a chance to play European football. It may be long and hard but it's very interesting and that's what you want to do. Hopefully the season will be long and rewarding.

"I haven't played European football for this club but I've been lucky enough to play European football for my previous club (AC Milan) and it is special.

"Playing in the Premier League is a big, big thing and you play top sides and top quality players every week. But to play in European football means to play against other teams you're not used to playing against. It's something special, something new and interesting.

"It's a special feeling, like playing for your country and I think it will be a great experience for the players at Villa who have not yet played European football."