Bouma: To win new deal

I need to concentrate on my game, step up my performances and hope he doesn't take my place in the team.

Davies on Cuellar arrival
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Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has reaffirmed his desire to secure Wilfred Bouma's future.

The Dutch defender is currently on the sidelines after dislocating his right ankle during Villa's summer InterToto campaign.

After tying down Gabriel Agbonlahor and John Carew on fresh contracts, O'Neill now wants to turn his attentions to Bouma.

Villa took up the one-year option on his old deal over the summer, although that still means he can talk to prospective come the turn of the New Year.

Bouma next

"We've signed Gabriel Agbonlahor and John Carew on new contracts and I also would like to get Wilfred Bouma sorted out," said O'Neill.

"That is something we would look to do."

Meanwhile, Villa defender Curtis Davies believes the addition of Carlos Cuellar from Rangers will only be good for the club.

Although the Spaniard is direct competition for former Luton man Davies, the 23-year-old thinks with European football on the cards O'Neill needs as many bodies as possible.

Squad boost

"I am delighted Carlos has come in. We needed to bolster the squad, particularly with our European aspirations as well as our domestic hopes this season," he stated.

"We want to do well in all competitions. If we went into the campaign with only five recognised defenders in myself, Zat Knight, Martin Laursen, Nicky Shorey and Luke Young, then it would have looked a bit light.

"If one got injured, there's not much cover. Carlos has come in and that makes the whole set-up look more secure. It also provides competition for places. It keeps you on your toes.

"I need to concentrate on my game, step up my performances and hope he doesn't take my place in the team."