Martin O'Neill has confirmed Olof Mellberg will remain part of his plans if he signs a pre-contract with Juventus.
Villa boss to keep playing Juve-bound ace
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has confirmed Olof Mellberg will remain part of his first-team plans if he signs a pre-contract with Juventus.
The Serie A giants have revealed the Sweden international is close to penning a deal that will see him join them on a free transfer in the summer.
It had been thought O'Neill could axe Mellberg from his first-team should his long-term future lay elsewhere, however, the former Celtic tactician would not second-guess the defender's commitment to the cause.
"Olof's commitment has been excellent and, even if he decides to go in the summer or signs a pre-contract, I would have no qualms about continuing to play him," said O'Neill.
Top professional
"This boy (Mellberg) has played nearly seven years for Villa and is a top professional.
"I recognise this is a very important time of his career. When you get clubs the size of Juventus making enquiries about you then you have to weigh things up.
"But I'd be quite happy to play him if he signs a pre-contract. He is well aware he is in his last season of his current contract but the total commitment to the cause is there every single week."
