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Mellberg thanks Villa faithful

05 May 2008 - 10:25:16

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Aston Villa stalwart Olof Mellberg said thank you to the Villa Park fans after his final appearance at home for the club ended in a 2-0 defeat to Wigan Athletic.

The 30-year-old Sweden international will leave England after seven years, having agreed a deal to join Italian giants Juventus in the summer.

An emotional Mellberg told the club's official website: "The fans were fantastic before, during and after the game. It was very special and not many players get to experience that.

"Everyone knows I'm not going to be playing here next season, so we had the chance to thank each other.

"Unfortunately we didn't win. I wanted the result so much and the performance. That was my main focus and it was really disappointing to lose.

"But I had the chance to look around and see all the yellow shirts, the flags and everything. It was fantastic. I'm disappointed about the result but in a few days time I will be able to look back at everything else.

"I've taken a few pictures and filmed everything that happened after the game. I'll look back at this with a lot of emotion.

"To hear all the fans was very special and it was important for me to be able to thank them as well. They have supported me through all my time at Aston Villa and I will miss them."