Zat Knight: Why I've never wanted to leave Aston Villa

Dec 27 2008 by Bill Howell, Birmingham Mail

ZAT Knight rejoiced at his stunning injury time leveller against Arsenal and admitted he has never contemplated a move away from Villa.

The £4 million defender was thrown in at the deep end against the Gunners due to Martin Laursen’s knee injury, which looks set to sideline the Dane for the next few weeks.

Knight had not started a league game all season but capped a fine defensive display with a goal to savour in last night’s pulsating 2-2 draw at Villa Park.

“It has been very frustrating for me but I have never had a reason to knock on the gaffer’s door because the team has been doing so well,” said Knight.

“If I had knocked I would have probably had it slapped back in my face.

“The team has done tremendous and it has been nice for me to come in and fill Martin Laursen’s boots and keep our run going.

“He is going to be missing for the next few games, and hopefully I can come in and do a good job.

“Everyone trains hard so that when you are called upon you are ready.

“It’s more about the mental side as well, and I see myself as a seasoned pro now – I am better able to look after myself because you never know what will happen.

“The manager didn’t say anything to me before the game. But looking around the dressing room, I was the only fit centre-half.

“I just had to make sure I got my head right and I thought defensively we did well to keep them down to three shots.