Laursen Wants Villa Skipper To Stay

Martin Laursen, who is on the comeback trail (Laursen Kicks A Ball) has said how much he wants the Villa and Sweden skipper to stay at Villa Park.

Mellberg, who has been linked to a £6million move to Bayern Munich, will captain his country tonight against Germany (4pm kick off).

Laursen said: ‘I would love Olof to stay – and not only because he is a good player. He’s also a good captain and a good friend. He’s called me from the Sweden camp and we speak a lot together. He’s told me he’s feeling in good shape.’

‘On the pitch, the best thing about him is his consistency – he doesn’t play extraordinary matches but he always plays his part. You can always count on Olof Mellberg. He is one of the fans’ favourites because he’s one of the best players. I really hope he stays and I’m looking forward to us playing together again.’

Olof Mellberg won the much coveted ‘Vital Villa beard of the year’ award at the end of the season, an award that is bound to hold some sway when he comes to make the decision on his Villa future.