Aston Villa legend handed 'amazing' new opportunity

Aston Villa legend Olof Mellberg has landed himself a new role as head coach of St. Louis City.

The popular Swedish defender was a big hit during his time at Villa Park and cemented himself as a cult hero among the claret and blue faithful.

Speaking about the new role, Mellberg told the club's website: “It is a great opportunity here because of the amazing infrastructure and the direction that the organization has put in place. I can’t wait to build upon the foundation already set here and the massive fan support that gives this team the energy to be successful.”

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Mellberg recently returned to Villa Park for the first time in 15 years, in Villa's 2-1 victory over Brighton on the final day of last season. The Swede spent seven seasons at Villa between 2001 and 2008 and made made a total of 260 appearances in Claret an Blue.

His performances on the pitch earned him plenty of plaudits and the adulation of the fans, but the former Villa skipper will always be remembered for his comments about Birmingham City on the eve of the second city derby.

He stated at the time: "It's just a feeling that I have," he said. "It's the feeling you get from talking to everyone at the club, people on the street and fans everywhere.

"I've been at the club quite a long time, I've played in all the derby games and I have that feeling too.

"A lot of the players feel that way and the relationship between the players has not always been brilliant.

"I just feel I could never move to them and they will never be an option for me.

"I personally don't have a problem with any of the Birmingham players and I know Jesper Gronkjaer. I just don't like the club."