Michael Bradley is ready to step up

Michael Bradley is primed and ready to play his part in Villa's fight for Premier League survival despite making only a handful appearances since arriving on loan.

The 23-year-old has started one game and made one substitute appearance following his temporary move from German side Borussia Moenchengladbach during the January transfer window.

The claret and blues are two points above the relegation zone but, despite being frustrated by his lack of match action, Bradley believes he can still play a pivotal role in Villa's season.

He said: "I can make an impact in the remaining games here and I'm ready to help us get out of trouble.

"When I get an opportunity to play I'll give everything for the team and I'll continue to do that. I am fit and raring to go if selected.

"Everywhere you go it is different players and different teams and there is always going to be a process when you're feeling things out.

"There's good competition for places which is great. It keeps people firing and on their toes. It only makes everyone better. The important thing is to keep working hard and to take that opportunity.

"There is nothing more you can do as a player than train hard, play hard and opportunities will hopefully come your way."

Bradley also admitted he is keen to make his loan move to Villa a permanent one in the future and is itching to show Gerard Houllier and the supporters what he is capable of.

The American midfielder said: "At this point I am just concentrating on the last seven games and we will leave the rest until the end of the season.

"In my eyes the Premier League is still the best league in the world. It is so competitive and the games are great. They are hard, fast and tough games and as a player you want to test yourself at the highest level every week.

"The pace of the game is obviously quicker here. It is going to take time to get comfortable with other players and for them to start to get a feel for you.

"That is life and part of football. If you come to a club when they are already halfway through the season you never know exactly how long it takes to get your foot in the door and get your chance.

"But, hopefully, I can show the people here that I am a guy that they need to have around in the long run."