Aston Villa midfielder Craig Gardner was happy to play at right-back in Saturday's victory over Reading.

He told Villa's website: "Olof was a bit sick and I was called in. As a player, I am always delighted to play - whether it be right-back or in midfield.

"Hopefully the manager thinks I did a good job and it's a good enough performance to keep my place in the team.

"I got the call about an hour before the game. The gaffer said Olof was struggling with illness and asked me to go out and do the warm-up. When I got back in, he told me I was playing.

"I wasn't nervous. I just like to get out and play. I don't like hanging about in the tunnel before the games.

"It was a boost that the manager trusts me enough in that role to play. He told me to use the ball well and that's what I did.

"I don't care where I play as long as I'm in the line-up. I've already told the gaffer I'll happily play anywhere."