"?Aston Villa midfielder Gary Gardner is intent on making an impact for the club in the Sky Bet Championship this season, having experienced the division on a number of occasions during various loan spells.
Speaking to the club's "?official website, Gardner said, "I've had a couple of years now in the Championship. I've played 60 games so probably more than anyone else here. I'm used to that division and I've played a lot of games.
Another 90 minutes and a goal happy days ???? @AVFCOfficial pic.twitter.com/ShlEgfLE0D
"I can definitely contribute here. I want to play and be a big player here. I'm 24 now and ready to make my mark. I feel fresh, I feel fit and that's what I'm here to do - play football. I've missed too much in my previous stages.
"Now I'm looking to keep going and get loads of football in. I'm back at Villa now, I finished strongly last year on the back of 25 games at Forest. I've had a good summer. I've worked my socks off and am working hard now. I feel good and am looking forward to the new season here at Villa.
It felt great to be back out on villa park today! It's been too long!! Thanks to everyone who came and supported! Ready for next week #utv??
"The lads are upbeat. The new manager has come in, he's been very confident. Everyone is looking forward to the new season. It was tough for the boys last year but I know this year they'll be fine.
"I've played in the Championship and we have enough quality to get back out of there. Every team has a difficult period but I think we'll be alright and hopefully we should bounce straight back."
Jordan Lyden: Just a word on the boss, he has been superb. Knows what's needed. Everyone understands what he wants. pic.twitter.com/YlSyxQrQFO
Gardner featured for Roberto Di Matteo's side in their 3-1 pre-season friendly defeat to Middlesbrough and he is expected to play a more prominent role for the club than he ever has before.
The 24-year-old, who spent time with Brighton & Hove Albion, Sheffield Wednesday and Coventry City in the Championship in addition to his two spells with Forest, may well fill the void of the impending exit of Idrissa Gueye.