Former Arsenal and Reading midfielder Steve Sidwell did not have the best of times at Chelsea but he is now beginning a new era at Villa.
Blues fan Rowan Farnham-Long gives us his opinion on where it went wrong for Sidwell at Stamford Bridge.
And he tells Villa fans what to expect from their newest recruit.
What were your thoughts when Chelsea signed Steve Sidwell?
I was surprised when we signed Sidwell, because although I knew he was a tidy player I didn't think he was as good as the midfielders we had at the club already. I understand why he would want to come to a club chasing titles and European glory, and although a lot of people will obviously point at the money aspect, it was an amazing opportunity for Sidwell to enhance his own game and challenge for honours year in, year out. Of course, it didn't end up like that!
Did you see his debut, if so how did he start?
Sidwell made his debut in pre-season but made it onto the pitch against that other team from your neck of the woods on the opening day of the season. He only came on for 7 minutes and perhaps that says it all!
What do you think his main qualities are?
He's got a great engine on him and I think he can pick a pass when given the chance. We tended to use him in a defensive role and he was at times like a little terrier around the pitch. I think he always gave his all and that pleased our fans. I remember going to a grim Barnsley cup tie which we lost with several incompetent displays across the field, but Sidwell was the only player who could come out of that game with his head held high because he never gave up.
What are his weaknesses?
As far as weaknesses, I think he was somewhat hindered by a few factors: Mikel, Ballack, Makelele, Lampard, Essien, Joe Cole, etc, and the fact that he wasn't as good as them.
Why did it never work out for him at the Bridge?
It never worked out because he wasn't needed, simple as that. He could never really cement a place in the team because he wasn't given ample opportunity. It's the same catch-22 situation which Scott Parker experienced. In the end he was booted out of the Champions League squad because he was superfluous. Plus, he wore the number 9 shirt. It's just not right for a midfielder.
Do you think the reported £5m fee is too much?
You can't really say anything is too much in football these days, and I think £5m is a decent price for a young(-ish) player who will always give 100% and just wants to settle down and play football. You've got a good buy there, full stop.
Is he an able replacement for Gareth Barry?
It will be hard for anyone to fill Barry's shoes, he has been a key player at Villa for years and years, but teams move on from losing great players. Arsenal sold Vieira and Henry, Manchester United sold van Nistelrooy, we will probably lose Lampard sooner rather than later, but it's just an opportunity for someone else to step up and do a job. Sidwell will do that for Villa, and I genuinely hope it works out for both parties.