Harewood signs for Villa

Aston Villa have announced the signing of Marlon Harewood from West Ham.

The striker has signed a three-year deal to join former Hammers team-mate Nigel Reo-Coker in the West Midlands.

Harewood, aged 27, has been linked with several clubs since the end of last season and had been expected to join Wigan until Villa closed in on his signature.

Villa have not disclosed the fee they have paid the Hammers for Harewood - who had also been linked with local rivals Birmingham recently.

Villa boss Martin O’Neill told the club’s website, www.avfc.co.uk: “I’m delighted that he’s accepted the invitation to come and join us.

“I know there were other teams wanting to take him, but he’s prepared to come here and challenge to try and work his way into the first team.

“I’m delighted to have him. He’s a strong lad, very athletic and if he can recapture the form he showed in the two seasons before last, he will definitely be a big asset.”

O’Neill added: “He’s coming to join a squad. We’ve let some players go during the summer and we’re now rebuilding the squad again.

“Marlon’s prepared to come in here and battle for his place and that’s what we want at this football club. He’s a confident lad who’s willing to fight for his place.”