Nicky Shorey believes Aston Villa will see the best of midfielder Steve Sidwell, who he played with at Reading, next season after a stop-start beginning at the Midlanders. There has been speculation linking Sidwell, but Shorey has no doubt that he can be a big asset to boss Martin O'Neill.

The left-back said: "I don't think we have seen the best of Steve yet. Last season was a strange one for Siddy. He was out injured for long periods and picked up niggles here and there. I don't think he's ever had that before.

"For as long as I've known him, he's never really been injured, so I think that was something new for Siddy to try to learn from.

"Hopefully he will have a good pre-season and then we'll see the best of him and I think everyone will be impressed with how well he can do."

Shorey added: "Siddy just keeps on going. He'll be fine. There's no worries on that count. He can play in a three or a two. That's what he's done in the past.

"He's just an all round good midfielder and I'm sure he'll show that before too long."