John Arne Riise is wanted by Aston Villa (Picture: PA)

Aston Villa have made an approach for former Liverpool and Fulham defender John Arne Riise, according to the Norwegian.

Riise was released by the Cottagers as they were relegated from the Premier League at the end of last season and he still remains without a club.

But a return to England could be on the cards after the 33-year-old revealed interest from Villa.

‘There has been some interest from a few English clubs,’ Riise said


‘Aston Villa is one of them. There has been some interest from Spain also.

‘But there is nothing on the table yet.

‘Of course there has been interest and things I have rejected.



‘I will take the time needed. It has to be right for me and my family.’

Villa boss Paul Lambert has been hampered in the transfer market with owner Randy Lerner unwilling to release funds while the club is up for sale.

The Villans have added both Joe Cole and Philippe Senderos on free transfers, while paying a minimal fee for Kieran Richardson and around £4.7m for Colombian international Carlos Sanchez.

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