Agbonlahor excited by new boss

Gabby Agbonlahor: The striker is ready for new start and a new challenge at Villa

Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor admits it will feel like a fresh start under new manager Paul Lambert when the players come back for pre-season.

The Brummie-born forward has been the subject of reports linking him with a potential £12million move to Sunderland and a chance to link up with former manager Martin O'Neill.

Agbonlahor's career at Villa Park stuttered under previous managers Gerard Houllier and Alex McLeish and he finished last season with a miserable run of 22 games without a goal.

However, the 25-year-old has no plans on leaving the club and aims to revive his career under former Norwich boss Lambert.

"On a personal note I'm excited," Agbonlahor told the Birmingham Mail.

"It's a new start and a new challenge. With a new manager you want to get yourself lean and ready for the start of the new season.

"So I'm excited for myself and for a lot of the squad, they'll be excited as well.

"For the whole squad, for every player, it's a fresh start. I think when everyone comes back for pre-season everyone starts from the same level really.

"I think for everyone, the squad and the fans especially, it looks like exciting times ahead."