By Paul Brown in Chicago

Brad Guzan admits it will be a family affair when Villa play Chicago Fire this weekend.

Guzan has a whole host of relations descending on Toyota Park on Saturday, along with fellow Windy City native Eric Lichaj.

Guzan says it's not only kin who will be excited by Villa's pre-season visit, though.

The USA ace insists the Barclays Premier League is big news now across the pond.

He said: "It's great to be in Chicago. I think this market here in the US is a fantastic football market and the fact a club as big as Aston Villa is able to come here on a tour is going to be exciting not only for us because I know a bunch of the guys love America, but also the fans in the US who are able to see our club.

"I know the Villa support around the country is tremendous, so it will be exciting for them.

"To get to Chicago is an added bonus. I think between myself and Eric there could potentially be between 300 and 400 tickets with family and friends we'll be bringing along, so that will be exciting.

"We're looking forward not only to the Chicago game but also Portland too.

"Chicago is a beautiful city. It will probably be similar to the temperature in Philadelphia, maybe a little warmer and it will be a good trip.

"Chicago is similar to New York and other large cities around the world, so I think the boys will definitely enjoy it and hopefully we can get a result there.

"I played with the Chicago Fire reserves when I was 16, 17 and it was brilliant to be a part of that.

"I'm looking forward to going back. I have a few friends who made it to the first team who will be playing.

"One of my good mates is Chris Rolfe who just came back from Europe. He was in Europe for two years and he's just joined them again.

"Their assistant coach who I worked with for most of my life is on their staff as well. I'm looking forward to going back for sure."

Don't miss out on Paul Lambert's Villa Park debut against Everton - click here.