Villa bring in sporting director

15 July 2015 17:31

Aston Villa have appointed Hendrik Almstadt as the club's first ever sporting director.

The 40-year old German joins from Arsenal where he spent the last four years working in the football department.

He worked on technical scouting, data analytics, financial budgeting and contract management, the academy and athletic development while with the Gunners.

Almstadt also worked with current Villa chief executive Tom Fox, who last season moved to Villa Park from his post as chief commercial officer at Arsenal.

"I'm really pleased to welcome Hendrik to Aston Villa," Fox told the club's official site.

"I was able to see first hand the excellent work he did at Arsenal and he will add tremendous value across our entire football set-up."

Almstadt begins work at Villa on Monday and added : "I can't wait to start my new role at Aston Villa.

"It is a club with huge potential, a rich history and deep roots in Birmingham, the Midlands, and within English and European football.

"I look forward to working again with Tom Fox and to establish a close relationship with the manager, Tim Sherwood."

Sherwood added: "I'm really excited Hendrik is joining.

"We have a lot of work to do at the football club and Hendrik will make the job I have here easier."

Source: PA