Aston Villa signing Moustapha Salifou has dismissed comparisons with French great Zinedine Zidane.

He told Villa's website: "In Africa if you pick up a style of play from another well known player, people will pick up on that and name you after that player.

"Zidane was an amazing player and I'm very happy to be spoken of in this way. But I play my own game and will be judged on what I do at Aston Villa."

Like most imports, Salifou must first adjust to the frantic pace of life in the Barclays Premier League. But he is a man in a hurry as he looks to make his mark.

He added: "I know the Premier League is very fast and I have spoken to friends who tell me of the physical demands. There is a lot of quality in this league - a lot of good teams.

"I have arrived a little into the season and I need time to catch up. But I cannot wait to integrate myself into the group so I can help us progress as soon as possible.

"I have been very impressed by the manager and by the coaches. Now I would like to repay the warm welcome I've had by performing well for Aston Villa."