Bouma Enjoying Life At Villa

Wilfred Bouma says he is flying and enjoying life at Villa.

He told the official site: ‘I’m really encouraged by my form. Last season I had a lot of injuries, but I came here to show people I’m a good player. I didn’t want to read in the papers I was a flop. I do read the papers and you’re always reading that players just come here for the money. That’s not the case with me. I’m here to show myself because I know what I’m capable of.’

‘It took a little time for me to produce it on the pitch – last season I was a bit homesick for a couple of months, and if you’re not feeling right mentally, you can’t show your best on the pitch. But Aston Villa is a great club and hopefully I’ll be remembered as good for them. The fans are great and I’m having a fantastic time here with my family. They all came over here and I decided to really show what I could do on the pitch and I’m really enjoying it.’

Adding: ‘But it can go even better- that’s always what you have to keep in the back of your mind so hopefully I can continue this run of performances and improve further. As a left-back, this is the best football I’ve ever played. But I’ve never felt so strong or fit either.’

He also explained that he missed the Reading game after picking up a knock on international duty but says he will be fine for the Fulham game on March 3.