The winger joined the Midlands club for 11.7million Euros from Wigan in 2011 but failed to replicate the form which had seen him become a hit at the DW Stadium.

After a change in management at Villa Park over the summer, the Frenchman has revealed that he is approaching this campaign with renewed focus.

"I agree, last year I was not at my level. But in my mind, I was not happy straight away when I signed," he told the Daily Mirror.

"I was always trying to think. Now I just try to play football. You'll see the real me. I scored my first goal this season against Manchester City in the League Cup.

"I'm in good form to carry on but now there's a bit of delay with the international break.

"But I need to really start to score in the Premier League and, if I start at Fulham on Saturday, I will try my best to do that.

"Whether I play more is down to the manager. As long as we have a good line of communication then there is no problem.

"It is the manager's choice and I have to accept that. I must make sure I take my chances when they come."