Vassell to play for new contract

England striker Darius Vassell is determined to play his way into the Aston Villa side and win a new contract.

And he is prepared to play wherever new manager David O'Leary wants him to get first-team football.

"I think I'm mentally strong enough now and I've got enough experience under my belt to deal with situations like this. I'm sure it will work out in the long run," he said.

Vassell has entered the final year of his current deal and talks spanning more than 15 months have failed to yield a new contract, but the England star has set his sights on producing his best form after a difficult time in 2002-03.

"The best thing I can do is remain focused on my football and try to prove to everyone that I am worth a good new deal. It's important for me to stay focused on my football at this club.

"That's what's going to get me a contract at the end of the day."

Vassell has been in fine form during Villa's pre-season tour of Scandinavia, scoring two goals and operating in a wide left position on two occasions.

"I think I am a good enough player to play in different positions and do a job," he said.

"Once you get into a season players get injured and maybe I'll be asked then to play out wide to help the team out.

"It's nice to be able to show people that I can play somewhere else than just up front. If nothing else, it shows Villa that I've got another string to my bow.

"I don't mind where I play as long as I am in the first team.

"When I go out on the wing, I've just got to do my best and show that I am good enough to play there, or wherever I am picked, and that I am worth my place in the team."