N´Zogbia targets improved showing at Villa

Charles N’Zogbia has vowed to up his game after a poor first season with Aston Villa, insisting that signing for the club was the right move.

The winger joined the Villans from Wigan in a big-money deal worth 9.5 million pounds but, in a uninspiring 2011-12 campaign that saw the Midlands outfit narrowly avoid relegation and manager Alex McLeish lose his job, the midfielder’s form dropped considerably as he contributed just two goals.

The Frenchman received criticism for his poor displays but is determined to put things right this term by returning to his form of old, while suggesting that will be able to settle better into his role in his second year.

“I’ve now been playing over here (in England) for eight years, so I know what to do,” the 26-year-old told the club’s official website.

“I know what I’m capable of and my focus is always to win games. Joining Villa was a good move for me. It was a difficult first season but I know I can work through that.

“I know the mistakes I made and I’m working on them. I know the other players much better now and that helps a lot.”

The former Newcastle man then indicated that he was trying overly hard to impress when he first arrived at Villa Park, indicating that he will stick to his strengths this time around.

“When I came here, I tried to offer something different because I felt I was joining a bigger club with big-name players,” N’Zogbia said.

“Maybe I tried too hard but it just wasn’t working.

“Now I’m determined to just be myself. I think I will benefit, and hopefully the team will as well.

“My strength is to be on the ball more often and go with it. That’s what I’m aiming to do this season and I know I will be better for it.”