France coach Laurent Blanc is happy seeing Robert Pires sign terms with Aston Villa.

The former Arsenal star has been a free agent since his release by Villarreal in the summer.

Blanc, who played alongside Pires in Les Bleus' World Cup-winning squad 12 years ago, said: "If Gerard Houllier has made the decision, then Pires can offer something.

"He will not be wrong. Pires may be getting on in years but still has the skill and technique to bring something to the party at Aston Villa."