Lambert brings Senderos to Villa

Aston Villa have signed former Arsenal and Fulham defender Philippe Senderos.

Senderos, 29, has agreed a two-year deal that will take effect from July 1. He becomes Villa manager Paul Lambert’s first signing of the summer, with the move announced prior to Senderos’ departure to the World Cup with Switzerland today.

Senderos, who has won 52 caps, made more than 100 appearances for Arsenal and joined Fulham in 2010 following loan spells with AC Milan and Everton. He moved to Valencia on loan from Fulham in January.

“I am really delighted to be joining Aston Villa, a great club with such a big history, and for me this is a great step in my career,” Senderos said.

Villa boss Lambert highlighted Senderos’ mental strength and experience with top clubs as being key ingredients behind Villa’s move.

“He’s played for some top sides and was a big influence in Arsenal’s run to the Champions League final in 2006, so we’re bringing in a really experienced player who’s been there and done it, and that will be important for the team,” Lambert said.

“I went to Switzerland not long ago to watch the national team train, and I could see he has a good, strong mentality for the game. Ottmar knows players, and for him to say that Philippe has never disappointed him on the pitch, that’s no small commendation.”