Gardner hoping to blossom

The 20-year-old signed a three-year contract in summer 2006 but Martin O'Neill is reportedly ready to offer him a new improved deal as he looks to tie the rich crop of youngsters to Villa Park. "I've read things about maybe being offered a new contract," said Gardner, who scored his first goal for the club in Saturday's 3-1 win at Middlesbrough. "It is nice that the manager thinks that much of me and hopefully I can prove it out on the pitch for him. I want to stay here as long as I can.

"I am a Villa fan through and through, I came through the ranks here and nothing can get better than playing for the club you have always supported. I initially signed for Villa when I was only 15 and these last five years since then have been the best days of my life."