Carlos Cuellar – The saviour of Aston Villa

When Martin O’Neill signed Carlos Cuéllar from Rangers back in 2008 for an estimated fee of £7.8million many people didn’t know to much about the centre half.

The Madrid born defender, was a firm fans favourite at the Glasgow giants after solid performances both on the domestic and European stage. And it wasn’t long before his never die attitude won over the Aston Villa faithful.

But it hasn’t always been easy for the versatile defender despite him playing his forth season at Villa Park. He has only managed 88 appearances due to a variety of reasons.

Injuries haven’t been kind to him, and whenever he found himself in the starting line up, he would pick up untimely problems. He has had to contend with winning over 3 managers in the last 3 seasons but not once has he complained.

For me he is a model professional and one all young aspiring defenders should look up to. He just gets his head down, and makes it impossible for the managers to ignore him.

It is no coincidence that since Carlos has regained his natural position in the heart of the Villa defence that we have conceded just the one solitary goal – which could now question the future for both James Collins and Richard Dunne.

I have always felt that the former Osasuna defender complimented a bigger partner in the centre of the park so I am delighted to see it finally paying off.

Not only is he a fantastic defender, he is also a gentleman of the field. The Spaniard always finds time to stop and communicate with supporters at both Bodymoor Heath and Villa Park as well as spending a fair bit of time on social networking site Twitter.

There is nothing more football supporters like than a down to earth hero. Someone who doesn’t believe he is above the fans and will give his all every time he is on the field.

And that is exactly what Carlos Cuéllar is, so lets just hope that the six foot three curly haired defender signs on for a longer period at the club.