Eric Lichaj: Nottingham Forest sign ex-Aston Villa defender

Nottingham Forest have signed former Aston Villa full-back Eric Lichaj on a two-year contract.

Lichaj, 24, played 23 games as Villa maintained their Premier League status last season, but was released in June.

The USA international is manager Billy Davies' second summer signing, following Darius Henderson's arrival.

"It's a very good club, who are ambitious to go into the Premier League and that's where I want to be as well," Lichaj told BBC East Midlands Today.

"Nottingham Forest were keen to sign me and I didn't hesitate at all to come here.

"My preferred position is right-back but I can play left-back as well.

"I always give 100% no matter what the situation is, that is first and foremost for me. I will be working my butt off, as an American would say!"

Lichaj, who has won eight international caps, made 42 appearances for Villa after joining in 2008 and has previously spent time on loan at Lincoln, Leyton Orient and Leeds.