The 22-year-old was disappointed when his initial move from Newcastle United to Aston Villa fell through on transfer deadline evening in August 2006. The clubs had agreed a deal but the Magpies changed their mind and recalled the winger.

It was a huge blow to the midfielder at the time but he has put it behind him to bounce back strongly and he is delighted to have made the switch to Villa Park.

Milner told the club's official website: "We were so close last time. To be pulled at the last minute was obviously hard to take.

"But it definitely strengthened me as a character. I learned from it. I have realised you have to take these tough set-backs and there will be a few in football.

"You have to take things like that on board and it has made me a stronger character. I am a better player too.

"You learn all the time. I've learned a lot and I'm only 22. I am just delighted to be coming to this club and to be able to work with the coaches and the players already here."

Milner also expressed his delight at the prospect of working with Martin O'Neill on a regular basis at Bodymoor Heath.

"The manager's track record is great at all the clubs he has been at," Milner added. "Here at Villa, the squad is tremendous and exciting too.

"We've got some really quality players and they have improved, like Gabby Agbonlahor. He was coming through the ranks when I was last here.

"I have played and trained with him at England Under-21 level and he is really shining now. He has improved tremendously.

"That is due to working with Martin O'Neill and his backroom team. I can't wait to work regularly with the manager and the coaches."

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