Nicky Shorey is willing Aston Villa defender Wilfred Bouma to return to full fitness even though it will increase competition for his left-back role. Bouma missed the whole of last season after suffering a dislocated ankle.

Shorey said: "One of the reasons I came here is that a club like Villa is going to have competition for places.

"I was as gutted as anyone when Freddy (Bouma) didn't come back as quickly as we all hoped. We hope he'll be back for pre-season fighting fit.

"I think everyone wants to see that and I'm no different. He's a great lad Freddy. I've come in here and he's made me feel welcome, which is nice.

"When you're fighting for positions, whoever gets the nod, you've just got to back them fully with your support and hopefully you'll get a chance further down the line."