Joe Bennett used to play for Middlesbrough. As of today, he plays for Aston Villa. He is 22 years old and plays at left back, although according to Twitter, he is comfortable anywhere on the left.
I'd like to be able to tell you more about him, but until yesterday I think, I hadn't heard of him. And until yesterday I didn't think we'd be getting another player and today I think there is maybe one more coming. I hope though that it is someone with a little more experience, but that is just me.
And that isn't a bad thing, it's just the way it is. Last season he played a lot for Middlesbrough and although he hasn't played this season, that is because he was injured, so I'm told.
And we need a left back because it is clear as day the manager has no interest in Stephen Warnock and I'm a firm believer in playing a player in the position he is most comfortable in and I'm sure the manager is too.
Joe Bennett speaks
When I first heard about the move a lot of things ran through my head. There was excitement and nerves and most of all a real buzz about the prospect of coming to Villa and playing in the Premier League. Now that it's come around so fast, I'm just raring to go. I've had a look around the stadium and the training ground and the facilities are top-class. You can tell straight away this is a massive club.
I know a few of the players from England U21s, the likes of Nathan Delfouneso and Nathan Baker and that will help in terms of settling in. I'm looking forward to it. My approach has always been to get forward and try to create things. In my opinion Ashley Cole and Gael Clichy are the best full backs around and if I keep working on my game and improving it I know I can succeed at this level and help the team.
It was not long ago that I was given my professional debut at Middlesbrough by Gareth Southgate and it is a real privilege to now follow in his footsteps and join a club with Villa's heritage. I am very grateful to get this opportunity and I'm very grateful to the Middlesbrough chairman, Mr. Gibson, all of the Middlesbrough staff and fans and, particularly, Tony Mowbray for giving me the opportunity to prove my ability.
I am fully focused now on my career here at Villa and I'm really eager to get started. My priority will be to impress the manager and gain a place in the starting XI. It will be a special moment when I pull on the claret and blue shirt for the first time. I'm determined to earn the respect of my team-mates and the Aston Villa supporters. I know it's going to be really exciting here in the years ahead and I really want to play my part.