New boy ready to impress at Villa

Brett Holman is aiming to make his mark at Aston Villa with a combination of his Australian mentality and Dutch playing skills.

Midfielder Holman will link up with Villa next week when they report back for pre-season training after signing a pre-contract agreement in March while still a player with AZ Alkmaar. The 28-year-old, who has won 53 caps for Australia, is hoping to emulate the success of fellow countryman, goalkeeper Mark Bosnich, at the midlands club. Holman told the Wolverhampton Express and Star: "The way they play in Holland is very technical and, mixed with an Aussie mentality, I think it is a great combination. "Playing under Louis van Gaal (at Alkmaar) you learn a lot as a player and that has definitely rubbed off on me. "I also know about what a good goalkeeper Mark Bosnich was for this club and he really made his name here. He gave Australians a good name at Villa Park and I hope I can make an impact as well."