FORMER England squad player Jlloyd Samuel has become Sammy Lee's first signing as Bolton manager.

The Aston Villa defender won't join the club officially until July 1. However, the 26-year-old full-back has agreed a four-year contract.

And Lee promises there will be more arrivals at the Reebok Stadium over the summer.

London-born Samuel jumped at the chance of a move when it became apparent he didn't feature in Martin O'Neill's plans.

He has made more than 150 first-team appearances for Villa, became an England Under-21 regular and made it into the full squad without ever being capped.

"I'm delighted that Jlloyd will join us and I think he will be an excellent signing," said Lee.

"He's versatile and will offer us quality in a number of positions, which is vital for our squad. He's English, has youth on his side and I think he will give us a lot."

Ambition

Samuel believes moving clubs will help get his career “back on track”.

He told the club's website: “Bolton Wanderers is a team that’s going places and they have shown for a few years the ambition they have in finishing in the top 10.

“They do a lot of things right with the players they have and it’s a great opportunity to better my career.

“I was at Aston Villa for 10 years and when you have been at a place for so long, you become part of the furniture.

“I felt like I needed a change and I’m sure that by coming to Bolton I will get myself playing again. Bolton is the club to get my career back on track.”

Samuel revealed the lure of UEFA Cup football was a big factor in his decision to sign.

He added: “I’ve had a little taste of the UEFA Cup earlier in my career when I was younger and the fact that Bolton have qualifed for Europe was a massive reason. Everyobdy wants to play in Europe and test themselves against the best.”

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