By Dan Harrison

Stewart Downing reckons Villa have learned plenty from their encounters with top European opposition - as they look ahead to another tough test against Valencia.

The three-team Guadiana Cup in the Algarve saw Martin O'Neill's men defeat Dutch side Feyenoord on Saturday before losing to Benfica - the champions of Portugal - the following evening.

Villa will get another taste of continental opposition this Friday when Valencia arrive at Villa Park in a final dress rehearsal ahead of the new campaign.

With the club looking for an extended run in the Europa League, as well as a strong challenge on all domestic fronts, Downing insists they will benefit greatly from warming up against quality European sides.

"It's good to be away together and to play against two different teams," said the winger.

"We are getting fitter as we go along. We have played some good football at times.

"In Europe there are teams like Benfica and they pass the ball around and change the pace of the game.

"That is what we have got to look forward to next season. The further you get in the competition the harder it becomes and teams like Benfica and Valencia are good tests to see what we may come against if we get further on in the competition."

Downing has thoroughly enjoyed the pre-season trips to Ireland and Portugal.

He said the intense training camps have ensured the squad are close to hitting peak condition ahead of the big kick-off against West Ham on August 14.

"The positive thing is that we are getting fitter all the time," he added. "The lads are getting game time.

"We have picked up a few little niggles along the way - that is to be expected - but nothing too serious which is the main thing for the manager."

The 26-year-old is relishing the first opportunity to run out in front of the Villa Park faithful this season, when the boys in claret and blue face Valencia on Friday evening.

"We have got a big game against Valencia on Friday which will be a good test for us in front of our home crowd for the first time in a while," Downing said.

"It is a big game and it's not too long until the season starts.The fans are looking to see what we are made of from last season and how we are going to kick on.

"It is going to be a good test for us against Valencia. They are a different outfit from what we are used to in the Premier League."