Report by NICK SMITH

MICHAEL Oakes is looking forward to a new challenge after bringing down the curtain on his nine-year Aston Villa career last week.

The Davenham-based goalkeeper has expressed his delight in signing for First Division side Wolverhampton Wanderers for £500,000.

"It's time for a change," said Oakes. "I'm looking forward to it and am delighted with the way things have worked out."

The 26-year-old may have felt that the departure of long-term rival Mark Bosnich to Manchester United in the summer had finally paved the way for him to be Villa's first choice.

However, boss John Gregory's need for Premiership squad strength blocked this route.

"They were always looking in every position to bring people in," added Oakes. "They brought in David James and a few people questioned it, but he's started the season and done very well. He's never looked back."

Although it seems that Oakes has stepped down a rung, he sees it as the ideal way to get a foothold for a future back in the big league.

He said: "I wouldn't have just gone to any side in Division One. They want to get into the Premier League, which is what I want to do.

"Going there and seeing the set up, with the package they were offering, was too good to refuse. They are always one of the bigger teams and are spending a lot of money."

Oakes still faces a fight to claim the No.1 shirt at Molineux from Mike Stowell.

He began training on Friday and while he didn't make the starting line-up for Sunday's derby at West Brom, he foresees more first team opportunities at his new club.

Oakes added: "I don't think I've been bought as the number two because of the money spent and the contract. But they have been on a winning run so it's difficult to change a side when results are going well."

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