Villa can confirm that James Collins has joined West Ham, having agreed a four-year deal with the London club.

Villa, of course, will be his first Barclays Premier League opponent as a Hammer, with the opening match of the top-flight campaign taking place at Upton Park on Saturday August 18, with a 3pm kick-off.

Tickets for that game, costing £39 [adults], £21 [O65s and U16s], are now on sale  to supporters who attended at least three Barclays Premier League away fixtures in the 2011-12 season.

To purcahse, contact the hotline 0800 612 0970, visit in person at Villa Village or New Street or buy online.