Aston Villa will welcome former fitness coach Robert Duverne back to the club after he was released from his contract with Metz.
Duverne worked under Remi Garde for three years at Lyon and previously spent time at Villa Park during Gerard Houllier's reign with the Midlands club during the 2010-11 season.
Metz president Bernard Serin told the club's official website: "When Robert had joined us in August 2014, I gave him my word that we would let him leave if he were to receive a proposal for a Premier League club to be part of the technical staff of Remi Garde.
"The conditions are now fulfilled and a word is a word. We will end the contract by mutual agreement.
"We thank Robert Duverne for his services over the past year and wish him success in his new British adventure."
Garde will take charge of Aston Villa for the first time when they welcome Manchester City to Villa Park on Sunday.
Kristian Johnson
