Olof not off - yet

Last updated : 24 December 2007 By Tom Vickers
Olof Mellberg has denied reports that he is leaving Villa Park next summer. The Swede's contract at the Claret and Blue is up in 2008 but he stringently denies that he has agreed to join Italian giants Juve.
He told Sky Sports:
"Would I like to stay at Villa? That is still an option, but I am focusing on my performances and what I've got to do now.
"It is definitely not true that I have signed a pre-contract with Juventus. My focus is to stay here for this season.
The defender seems as committed as ever to the Villa cause and claims that his only focus is on helping his current team into Europe:
"Whatever happens, it will be really nice to have a good season. We have a good chance to finish high up the table and maybe qualify for Europe.
"Whatever happens, it would be great for me to achieve that and I am definitely looking to finish the season."
Mellberg has been a rock for Villa since joining during the John Gregory years. He was captain for a long spell before being replaced by the more youthful Gareth Barry and the Swede is loved by the Holte End faithful who always sing: "There's only one Mellberg!" prior to every home game.
He would be missed should the deal with Juve go through but no-one can deny him a fresh start, especially as he has been pushed out to right-back this season due to the arrival of Zat Knight.
Olof is very much a current Claret and Blue legend and hopefully one that will remain for years to come!