Manager Tim Sherwood has claimed that Aston Villa new boy Joleon Lescott will prove himself to be a "great signing" and played down the relevance of his age.
The defender joined Villa from West Midlands rivals West Bromwich Albion on deadline day for a reported £2m, and the 45-year-old is delighted with the coup.
The former England international turned 33 last month, and although the Villans boss is aware that he is no longer in his prime, Sherwood says that the veteran - who helped Manchester City to two Premier League titles - has priceless experience.
"He's walked in here like he's played here all his life," he told a press conference. "He's going to be a great signing for the club, he has that immense experience and game know-how.
"We're not getting Joleon Lescott in his prime, we know that, but we're getting a player who was player of the year at West Brom last year. He missed the first four games [with West Brom last season] but played the other 34. He's certainly an influence on the pitch and in the dressing room.
"The dressing room needed someone with experience. We've signed a lot of young, footballers from different countries so Joleon will help knit that group together. He's fit to start and has an opportunity to start."
Lescott could earn a debut in Sunday's trip to unbeaten Leicester City.
Shane Callaghan
