Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Midfielder Steve Sidwell has completed his £5million move from Chelsea to Aston Villa.
The 25-year-old has agreed a three-year deal and will immediately link up with his new team-mates for a pre-season tour of Switzerland.
His arrival also increases the likelihood of club captain Gareth Barry leaving, although the speed of that deal will depend on how quickly manager Martin O'Neill and Liverpool counterpart Rafael Benitez can reach a compromise after weeks of haggling over a fee for the England international.
"I am absolutely delighted to join. I am over the moon. It's taken a while but now it's done I am excited and looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and getting on the pitch and playing football," Sidwell told the club's website, avfc.co.uk.
"There's been a lot of speculation and rumour about the deal and it has played on my mind a little but I've been professional and kept my head down."
Sidwell endured a frustrating time at Chelsea last season after joining on a free from Reading.
He made just 25 appearances, 12 as substitute, as he struggled to break into a high-quality midfield.
Now he is looking forward to getting back to featuring on a regular basis.
"I am here now and can't wait to put a Villa shirt on and play for the fans. For me personally, it's about getting back and playing," he said.
"I have had a year of not playing as much as I would have liked so to get out on the pitch is the first aim.
"It's straight down to work really. I have already done some pre-season with Chelsea but the hard work starts now.
"I can't wait to get out on the training field and meet my new team-mates. I have heard they are a good bunch of lads.
"I am sure I will settle in fine and I'm sure the players will be fine with me."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments