It’s been another busy and enjoyable week for me both on and off the training pitch. I’ve been working hard with the fitness coaches at Villa Park and I’m pleased to say that I am feeling stronger all the time. We have a very important Midlands derby at Coventry City to look forward to and I hope to play my part in helping the team return to winning ways and maintain our push towards the top of the Premiership table.

You may have seen my appearance on The Frank Skinner Show on Monday which was recorded the previous evening. He is a really funny guy and it was interesting to meet him and see his other guest on the show that night, Spice Girl Mel C.

This week I literally lit up parts of Birmingham as I turned on the Christmas lights in two parts of the town. On Monday I was in Hawthorne Road in Kingstanding and I had the unusual experience of being bundled into the back of a police car because the officers controlling the huge crowd decided that was the best way to get me back to my car. There was another fantastic turnout on Thursday in the Sutton Coldfield Town Centre. The only disappointing thing was that I was unable to stay a little longer to sign autographs, but I had to be away to prepare for a very early training session the following morning in the build up to the Coventry game.

This week saw the amazing news of Leeds United’s record £18,000,000.00 bid for Rio Ferdinand which was accepted by West Ham. There is no doubting the ability of the England defender but the surprising thing is that Leeds are prepared to pay such a huge sum now when the EU may yet abolish the transfer system.

I am involved in an exciting charity event which is taking place next Tuesday. Myself and others such as Madonna have each customised a Steiff bear which will be auctioned on the night in aid of the Red Cross. I chose to dress mine in a miniature Aston Villa kit and yesterday we had a photo taken together as part of the promotion. All the bears look really great.

Anyway, must dash. Have yourselves a lovely weekend and see you next time.

David Ginola

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