Stephen Ireland is confident he will produce his best football under new Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier.
Houllier finally takes charge of the Midlands club today (Monday), but his appointment has reportedly received a mixed response from those associated with Villa.
However, midfielder Ireland, who joined the club earlier this summer in the deal which saw James Milner leave for Manchester City, is relishing the chance to work with the former Liverpool boss.
He said: “I think the change is going to have to be gradual. Managers at other clubs have come in and changed things too fast too soon and it hasn’t worked.
“I know Houllier has got big plans, and all the players will have to get on board. Hopefully we can go far in the cups and have a nice finish in the league.
“I’m happy with the appointment and everyone is looking forward to the future.
“Hopefully he can get the best out of me. The fans still have more to see. I’m still getting to understand the player on the pitch.”