Wednesday 16 July 2014 10:52, UK
Paul Lambert says Philippe Senderos is a 'big-time player' whose experience can help shore up Aston Villa’s defence.
Senderos joined Villa on a free transfer earlier in the summer following a stint with Valencia during the second half of last season.
He has previously had spells with Arsenal, AC Milan, Everton and Fulham, as well as appearing in three World Cups for Switzerland.
Lambert believes the 29-year-old will prove to be a key addition to a Villa defence which conceded 61 goals in the Premier League last season.
"Philippe is a big-time player, he knows the game and exactly what it entails," said Lambert.
"He's played at three World Cups and there are not many players that can turn round and say that.
I think he will be another brilliant acquisition for us, with the problems we did have at the back last year, then he’s certainly going to add that experience in abundance.
"I think he will be another brilliant acquisition for us, with the problems we did have at the back last year, then he's certainly going to add that experience in abundance.
"No two ways about it, he's another one who I think will do well for us."
Senderos has also been tipped to shine by former Fulham team-mate Kieran Richardson, who has made the move to Villa Park this summer and believes the centre-back's CV speaks for itself.
Richardson said: "Phil was at Fulham with me and he is a top professional. He's a good centre-half and I'm sure he'll give 100 per cent.
"He's played for Arsenal, AC Milan, Everton. His résumé is very good and a player like that doesn't play for those clubs for no reason.
"He's a top, top guy, he's very good in the dressing room. He's a leader and he does talk a lot, which is good."
