Ludwig Augustinsson said he's joining a Club headed in the right direction after signing for Aston Villa.
The Swedish international agreed a season-long loan move from Sevilla this week and has now joined the squad on their tour in Australia.
Talks with Head Coach Steven Gerrard and Sporting Director Johan Lange left Augustinsson excited for a move to the Premier League.
“I’m feeling very happy, it’s a very big club and very traditional in England,” he said.
“I’m very happy to be here and I’ve had a very good welcome from everyone.”
Augustinsson added: “I followed the Premier League for many, many years. It’s always been a target and a dream from when I was a kid.
“When the opportunity came up, I said to my agent ‘let’s do this’. I had a good chat with the gaffer and Johan (Lange) and I really felt that this club is going in the right direction.
“It’s a really good squad. It’s a big club with really good fans. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
Helping the full-back to settle into life at Villa will be a couple of familiar faces, Robin Olsen and Diego Carlos, who Augustinsson has previously played alongside.
“They’re two really good guys. I played with Robin before, both in Denmark and in the national team,” he said.
“Obviously, I played with Diego in Seville. It’s nice to know some people from before, but I must say the other lads in the team have been really welcoming.
“It’s been really easy to get into the group even though it’s only my first few days.”
Augustinsson arrives at Villa Park with international pedigree, having played 46 times for Sweden.
The defender also graced the Champions League and Europa League during his time in Seville, and he’s now looking forward to testing himself in England.
He said: “This is the best league in the world, the most competitive league in the world.
“There are some great, great teams in the league, so it’s going to be a great challenge for me and for the team this season.
“I’m looking forward to it and so are the team. I think we can play a good season together.”
