Exclusive: Paul Robinson hails Aston Villa for pulling off 'Very astute signing'

Paul Robinson has claimed Aston Villa have pulled off a "very astute signing"  in goalkeeper Tom Heaton.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former England and Tottenham number one explained why he is such a big admirer of his former Burnley teammate.

Heaton, 33, was recruited from the north-west club by Villa in the summer window for a fee of £8million.

Robinson revealed he was taken aback by the price for the veteran but is in no doubt he will prove sound value for money.

"It shows you what a good player he is and what a good professional he is," Robinson told Football Insider. "I worked with Tom at Burnley and everyone says he's one of the nicest guys they’ve met but Tom is genuinely a nice guy.

"He's a dedicated professional, gives more than 100 per cent every week and he is a very, very talented goalkeeper.

"I was surprised at the price tag for his age but I think in that position I don't think that's a problem. I think that's a problem that Villa had, I think it was very, very astute signing. I think it's a great acquisition."

Heaton has established himself as the number one at Villa since his arrival, displacing Jed Steer.

The three-times England international has started all 10 of the Midlands club's Premier League matches this season, conceding 16 goals and keeping two clean sheets.

In other Aston Villa news, it can be REVEALED that the club have set aside £20million for January signing as preliminary moves made.