Fabian Delph: Relegation might have changed Aston Villa decision
Last updated on .From the section Football
Aston Villa midfielder Fabian Delph has told BBC Sport that he might not have signed his new contract with the club if relegation was a possibility.
The 25-year-old England international signed a new four-and-a-half-year deal with the club in January.
The club are currently in the Premier League relegation zone and earlier this week sacked manager Paul Lambert.
"When I signed my contract there wasn't a thought in my mind that relegation was going to happen," he said.
"If that was the case, you'd have argued that I wouldn't have signed the contract."
Delph, who came to the club from Leeds in 2009, had been linked with moves to Liverpool, Everton and Tottenham but he believes Villa can remain in the Premier League next season.
"When I signed we were trying to get into the top four but I've been in relegation battles since I've been a regular starter here, which isn't something I am proud of," he added.
"Each year, we've crossed the line and got through and I don't see this year being any different. We're confident in our own abilities and I'm 100% certain we will get over the line.
"The future at the club looks bright and if we stay up and build for next season the fans will be a lot happier than they are at the moment."