BERGER AGREES VILLA MOVE
Portsmouth midfielder Patrik Berger is poised to join Aston Villa after passing a medical and agreeing personal terms with the midlands club.
Berger, who is out of contract at Fratton Park this summer, has agreed to sign a two-year deal from July 1 when his current contract expires.
Berger is returning to his native country for the summer but is already relishing the chance to make his mark as Villa manager David O’Leary’s first close season signing.
The Czech international told Villa's official website, www.avfc.co.uk: “It is an exciting move for me and I am already looking forward to my first season at Villa Park.
“As soon as I knew of the interest from Villa, I wanted to come here. This is a big club with a great history.
The 31-year-old admitted O'Leary's brand of football was a major factor in his decision to join.
“David O’Leary was the main factor in my coming to Villa. He said he would like to have me here - and that was enough for me.
“I like the style of football that he plays here at Villa. He likes to play attractive football and so do I.
“I have played at Villa Park quite a few times and it is a ground that has great memories for me.
“My first game on the ground was with the Czech Republic when we beat Portugal in the semi-finals of Euro '96.”
Berger moved to Portsmouth two years ago after spending seven seasons with Liverpool.
Berger scored 35 goals in 196 games for the Reds, whom he joined from Borussia Dortmund shortly after his exploits in Euro ’96 in helping the Czechs to reach the final, where they were beaten by Germany.
Berger made 30 Barclays Premiership starts for Portsmouth last season, scoring three goals, and has won 40 caps for his country.
Hopefully Berger won't score goals for Villa when they play against us, but good luck to him.
