ANDY TOWNSEND last night signed a one-year extension to his Aston Villa contract, which was due to expire this summer. Villa also have a further 12-month option on the player, who will be 34 in July.

Brian Little, Villa's manager said: "Although there is bound to be movement both in and out over the summer, it is important that I keep together the nucleus of my squad, and Andy is a very important member."