Laursen relishing European nights

Martin Laursen always hoped to play in Europe when he signed for Villa

Aston Villa centre-back Martin Laursen believes the club's supporters deserve the spectacle of European football.

Villa open the group phase of the Uefa Cup at home to Ajax on Thursday night (2015 BST) before facing Slavia Prague, Zilina and Hamburg.

"I was obviously hoping to play these big games in Europe," Laursen told BBC WM. "It's going to be a great night.

"It's special. It's a great atmosphere at European games playing against teams we're not used to playing against."

Laursen, who has previous experience of European competition from his days with AC Milan, is delighted that Villa have got the chance to open their campaign at home.

"I know that all the players are looking forward to playing," he said. "I don't know if it's an advantage, but I'm glad we're playing at home in this first game because, after so many years, it's going to be a great night."