A heavily delayed press conference yesterday evening at Aston Villa`s brand new training ground announced that former England U-21 captain Nigel Reo-Coker had joined the club in an £8.5million deal. Apparently the delay was paper-work based, I feel however that it may have been due to Reo-Coker’s leg falling off during the medical.
The Manager
Villa boss Martin O`Neill spoke of his delight of finally getting his man and suggested that for everyone concerned “He`ll be worth the wait.”
The manager, speaking to the official website during the press conference said: ‘I am absolutely delighted. It’s been a long, drawn out affair but it was worth the wait. I am really pleased he has signed for us.”
I think he has great energy, superb ability and I think he’ll be a terrific asset for us.”
The Player
Nigel Reo-Coker himself, seemed somewhat happy to be at Aston Villa, but following encouragement by those interviewing him felt the need to take one last swipe at former club West Ham and the supporters, who singled him out for criticism during last seasons dismal Premiership performance.
When asked if he felt he had been made a scapegoat at the press conference, Reo-Coker responded: ‘If I am being honest yes I do believe that.
Whether people want to say I’m being obnoxious or arrogant or just being bitter that’s my own personal belief.
I feel I was hung out to dry.’ ‘This is a fresh start for me, a new beginning and I do not want to dwell on the past.
Turning more to all things Villa, Reo-Coker told of his admiration for Martin O`Neill and how the stature and organisation of the club persuaded him that Villa Park was the place to be.
I wanted to play for Martin O’Neill,’ continued Reo-Coker.
His record speaks for itself – and as soon as I found out about his interest, this was the club I wanted to come to.”
Speaking to the official website today, his first full day as an Aston Villa player he said: ‘This club is massive’
They’ve got a tremendous set of fans, a great stadium and obviously a great manager in Martin O’Neill.”
