Reports that Villa have approached John Arne Riise are apparently wide of the mark.
Paul Lambert has denied making an approach – or indeed having any interest – in the 33-year-old.
Riise, now a free agent after his contract with Fulham expired in the summer, had claimed that Aston Villa was a possible destination for his next career move.
However, Villa boss Lambert has bluntly dismissed claims that he’s had contact with the Norway defender.
He told reporters at a pre-match press conference: “That’s not one I’ve even thought about to be honest with you, it must be the rumour mill.”
And when asked if the club had made a direct approach for Riise, he said: “It certainly wasn’t with myself, that’s for sure.”
Riise had fallen out of favour at Fulham last season, which was his third at the club.
Before that, the 33-year-old enjoyed spells at Roma and, of course, Liverpool, where he won a number of trophies, notably the Champions League.
Riise is best remembered for his surging runs down the left-hand side – mostly made in the earlier years of his career – and his thunderous shot from long range and dead-ball situations.
Here is an example…
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