Aston Villa FC

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Opportunity knocks for Knight

15 Jul 2009 - 08:29:27

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Defender Zat Knight has told Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill that he is the man to fill Martin Laursen's boots.

O'Neill is believed to be in the market for a new central defender following the retirement of Laursen at the end of last season.

Knight has yet to establish himself as a first-choice central defender during two seasons at Villa Park but believes he can be the one to benefit from Laursen's departure.

He told the club's official website. "We will miss Martin. We missed him at the end of last season. We wish him all the best for the future - he deserves it.

"But it gives others an opportunity now and hopefully that can be me.

"I want to give myself a good pre-season and then be in the side when the new campaign starts.

"It's been good to have a break but it's nice to get back to reality too. It's back to business now."

The former Fulham defender started just 13 Premier League games for the Midlands club last season.