Express and Star: Brett Holman today insisted he had no reservations about joining Aston Villa even though the manager who originally signed him has since been sacked. The 28-year-old Australia international was persuaded to leave AZ Alkmaar on a Bosman transfer by former Villa boss Alex McLeish only to see the ex-Birmingham boss shown the exit door.

Setanta Sports: Cameroon international Jean Makoun is awaiting international clearance to prove his worth to new Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert. Makoun hopes to get his work permit issue resolved as soon as possible, so he can join in pre-season training with the rest of his team-mates as he looks to make up for lost time at Villa Park.

Sky Sports: Australian forward Brett Holman has been assured he has a future at Aston Villa under new manager Paul Lambert. Holman signed a pre-contract to join Villa in March when Alex McLeish was in charge but by the time the 28-year-old reported for pre-season training the former boss was long gone.

ClubCall: Shay Given is tipping young Aston Villa goalkeeper Benji Siegrist for a bright future as he gears up for the Olympics. The 20-year-old will be representing Switzerland during the Games this summer and Given is convinced he will make a lasting impression.

Goal.com: Newly-appointed Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert has sent an open letter to fans outlining his intentions for the club. The former Norwich City manager is looking to regain optimism among supporters after a dismal 2011-12 campaign saw attendances wane, adding that the crowd will have to back the team if he is to get the best out of them.

*The extracts on this page are taken from various newspapers and media outlets. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Aston Villa.