Aston Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell admits Gareth Barry's move to Manchester City has been good for him.

Sidwell has slotted into the void left by the England international and told The Times: "Obviously when Gareth left, there was a hole to fill.

"I'm not saying I'm the new Gareth Barry, but there was a chance for someone. It's gone well for me so far this season. There's a lot of room for improvement, I can play much better, but it's getting there."