Aston Villa midfielder Craig Gardner is determined to be a first team regular next season.

Gardner said: "I didn't want last season to end, because things were going so well for me - so the summer can't go quickly enough.

"Ever since I came to Villa, I've been working hard to play first-team football and as I've played for the Academy and the reserves, I've been dreaming of playing in the Premier League against the top players.

"You come up against quality opponents whoever you play against in the Premier League and every player wants to test himself against the very best.

"That's the only way to keep improving as a player and I want to play for Villa against the very best players in the country."

Gardner insists he is not fazed by playing against the cream of the country's talent.

He said: "I played against Liverpool in my first season and last year was involved in games against Manchester United and Chelsea.

"You have to respect them, because of everything they've achieved, but you should never be scared of them."