I'll prove to Villa I am no average Joe, vows goalkeeper

JOE Gauci is determined to seize any “opportunities” at Villa amid speculation over the future of Emi Martinez and the departure of Robin Olsen.

- By JAMES PALLATT

The young Australian spoke about the goalkeeping situation at Villa Park during a Socceroos camp in Abu Dhabi, admitting if Martinez does leave, the club will almost certainly sign a new number one.

Martinez has been linked with an exit during the summer transfer window, with interest coming from Europe, including Atletico Madrid, as well as from the Saudi Pro League, while Olsen has already departed for Malmo.

“I'll go back and start pre-season at Villa and put my best foot forward and work hard and continue to develop,” said Gauci.

“When it comes to my future and next season, I’m an Aston Villa player, and my main focus is to play for Aston Villa, whether that’s next season or the years that follow.

“There's a lot of speculation in football, so that’s out of my control. I guess there’s no point worrying about ifs and buts, he (Martinez) is contracted.