Smiler and Ollie set for contract talks

Smiler McCann and Ollie Mellberg are set for talks with manager Martin O'Neill sometime between February and May, according to the official web site this morning.

There were a few rumours doing the rounds that a Spanish side were interested in Mellberg and I thought I even read a quote from a club official somewhere but Martin O'Neill has not only gone and dismissed this he's confirmed how important the player is to the team.

Both players have 18 months left with the club and the manager wants to tie them down, more than likely, to finish their careers in the top flight, with Aston Villa.

Once we get the transfer deadline out of the way, sitting down with these people is something I'll be looking at between now and May - Olof included to discuss their futures. - Martin O'Neill

I like how Mellberg plays. He's a no nonsense defender who can play intelligent football. I'd like it if he played more intelligent football instead of kicking long but I think we are starting to see more of it under O'Neill and I expect we'll see more to come.

It also looks like Olof is keen to stay and not looking to leave.

I would like to stay at Villa if they offer me a new contract. Definitely. I am not looking to leave. There is no reason to say 'no' if there is a new contract offer. - Olof Mellberg

You all know the story with Smiler and it appears Martin O'Neill likes him. He has played much better this season and hopefully we're going to see more from him in the months to come.