Marlon Harewood is still waiting for his chance to prove himself at Villa Park this season. The powerhouse striker, a member of the PFA's Player Management Agency, linked up with Martin O'Neill in the summer after moving on from West Ham and is champing at the bit. Villa look set to make a real impact at the business end of the Premier League table this term and Harewood is waiting in the wings. The bustling centre forward has made cameo appearances for Villa and scored in the Carling Cup but insists there is more to come form him this year as he settles into the West Midlands. Givemefootball's Ian Clarkson spoke exclusively to Harewood about life in the second city and working with Martin O'Neill.
Q:HOW HAVE YOU FOUND LIFE AT VILLA?
A:It has been very good. Training is hard but enjoyable and I have really enjoyed my time at Villa so far. It has been a really good experience for me and I am really enjoying my career.
Q:WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO CHOOSE VILLA IN THE SUMMER?
A:I spoke to Martin O'Neill in the summer and I thought 'I have got to be part of this'. I had opportunities to go to other clubs but I wanted to work with him and it has proved to be a good move. I know that I am not guaranteed a starting position and I was made aware that I would have to fight for my place when I signed but that is no problem. At the moment the strikers are playing very well and that has to be good for the club, which is the most important thing. I can't have any arguments that I am not starting at present but I will keep working hard to make sure I am ready for my opportunity
Q:WHAT CAN YOU DO TO TRY AND FORCE THE MANAGER'S HAND?
A:I have to work hard in training and make sure that when I get my opportunity I can grab it with both hands. I have to prove that I can stay in the team as competition for places is fierce. However, you can't help but be impressed by Villa. I was told that it was a big club but I didn't realise quite how big until I signed. The facilities are fantastic and it really makes you feel welcome and want to do well for the club
Q:ARE YOU CONFIDENT THAT YOU CAN MAKE AN IMPACT WHEN YOU ARE GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY?
A:I know I can do it at Premier League level – there is no question of that. I have scored regularly before for West Ham so it is just a case of getting games. I haven't played that many so far, but, as I said before, I have no problem with that as the strikers are playing well, which is good for the club.
Q:WHAT'S YOUR MESSAGE TO VILLA FANS?
A:Hopefully, when my opportunity comes I will be able to take it and I can tell Villa fans that there is a lot more to come from me. I am working extra hard with the coaches at Villa to ensure that my fitness levels are above and beyond. It is all about preparation and making sure you leave nothing to chance.
Q:WHAT ARE YOUR IMPRESSIONS OF MARTIN O'NEILL?
A:Martin O'Neill is very positive and excellent at man-management. Every player you speak to about Martin only have good things to say about him and the way he handles players is second to none.
