Samir Carruthers is delighted with his new two-year deal at Aston Villa.

The midfielder is determined to push for first team selection this coming season.

He said: "It's great for me to commit my future to Villa where I've grown to this point in my career and hope to progress further.

"Now I've just got to try and work hard and try and get into the first team, that's the main aim.

"Last year I made some squads and I was close to the first team, but nearly isn't good enough. You have to go for it.

"Even if I do get a game or two I haven't made it yet. I want to be playing every single week and that's what every footballer wants to do.

"Now I'm hopefully training with them every day. If I can keep fit and avoid injuries you never know. The first game is against Arsenal and all of the places are up for grabs.

"You have to be quality every single day in training or you're not going to be in the squads when it comes to the games. Its competition, it makes everyone better. I've just got to try and work hard now."