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N'Zogbia takes 'big step' from Wigan to Villa

Friday, July 29, 2011

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French international winger Charles N'Zogbia said he had made a "really big step" after joining Aston Villa FC from Wigan Athletic FC for a reported fee of nearly €11m.

Charles N'Zogbia helped Wigan avoid relegation from the Premier League last season
Charles N'Zogbia helped Wigan avoid relegation from the Premier League last season ©Getty Images

Charles N'Zogbia has signed a five-year deal with Aston Villa FC to become Alex McLeish's second signing since taking charge of the club.

Villa agreed a reported fee of nearly €11m with Wigan Athletic FC earlier in the week before finalising the deal on Friday. McLeish, who succeeded Gérard Houllier as Villa manager last month, will hope N'Zogbia, 25, can help fill the void left by Ashley Young and Stewart Downing's departures for Manchester United FC and Liverpool FC respectively.

"I am really happy and excited to sign for Aston Villa," said N'Zogbia. "It is a great club and a really big step for me in my career, so I am sure I will enjoy my football here."

N'Zogbia, who has two caps for France, scored 15 goals in 83 Premier League appearances for Wigan. He joins Shay Given at Villa Park following the Republic of Ireland goalkeeper's move from Manchester City FC last week.

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