New Aston Villa signing Joe Bennett believes that he is "stronger" after overcoming a number of injuries.

The 22-year-old was forced to recover from knee and ankle problems during his stint with Middlesbrough.

However, having now linked up with Premier League side Villa, the defender has set his sights on proving those that doubt his ability wrong.

"You're going to have setbacks in your career," Bennett told the Express and Star. "That's life, but you've got to get on with it.

"Those setbacks make you stronger. I want to do well and I want to prove a lot of people wrong that have doubted me. It's definitely made me mature and made me more determined."

Bennett has made a number of appearances for England at youth level.

Written by
Liam Apicella