Defender, Calum Chambers has joined Cardiff City on a free transfer.
Chambers left Aston Villa last week following discussions over his lack of game time, which has seen his two-and-a-half year spell at Villa Park end with one goal in 36 appearances.
During his time at Unai Emery’s Villains, he made five league appearances last season as Villa finished fourth in the Premier League, whilst they also reached the semi-finals of UEFA Europa Conference League where they lost to eventual winners – Olympiacos.
Chambers has now decided to drop down to the Championship and join Cardiff which he is “absolutely delighted” as he looks for a fresh challenge.
The 29 year-old is currently keen on an ambitious challenge and believes that Cardiff offers that opportunity.
“I think after speaking to the Club, it felt like they were very ambitious in where they were heading. It seemed like a really good project to be a part of, and I didn’t really want to miss out.
“I’m at a stage in my career where I want to be ambitious and create memories for myself as well. It was a good time for us both to meet at this point.
“The stadium is quality and it’s a great club. I can’t want to play here at the stadium for the first time. The manager was key. We had some good conversations, we’re both very ambitious and want to push this club up.
“It’s a very good squad as it is. I just want to come in as a centre half; I like to get on the ball and play, be vocal on the pitch, so if I can do that it will bring the best out of me as well.”
Manager, Erol Blut believes that the Bluebirds have “a great player” in Chambers who has previously represented Southampton and Arsenal, whilst he spent time on loan at Middlesbrough and Fulham.
“It is a great addition for us, and I hope that in our defensive shape and our build-up he will have good qualities. He can also play two or three different positions. That is important for us.
“I think it’s a good start to the window. Last season, we saw our issues in a few positions.
“With Chambers, he will be very important to our defensive shape. In football, you have to defend and attack together, and I hope that we can do that even better than last season because our targets are different this year.”