Midfielder Gary Gardner has put pen to paper on a new three-year contract with Aston Villa.
The 23-year-old, who has been with Villa since the age of seven, extends his previous deal by two years.
He is keen to make a first-team impression under Tim Sherwood having spent part of last season on loan in the Championship with Nottingham Forest and Brighton & Hove Albion.
"I am looking forward to working with the gaffer going forward and being someone he can turn to and do a job for the team," Gardner told the club website.
"I enjoyed my time on loan but now I'm determined to make an impact this season with Villa and show everyone what I'm capable of."
Gardner is currently injured after suffering what he called the "worst tackle" he has ever been on the end of.
