By Gary Spate
August 1 2003

ASTON Villa striker Darius Vassell has warned his manager David O'Leary that that he will quit Villa Park is he's not offered a new improved contract. The 23-year-old England international is in the final year of his contract but wishes to stay at Villa Park well beyond the current deal.

He has pledged to redouble his efforts on the field to warrant a higher wage.

"There's been no progress so the best I can do is just remain focused on my football and try to prove to everyone that I'm worth signing on a good new deal," said Vassell.

"I know I can't dwell on it and allow myself to start thinking negatively. I've got to stay focused on my football - that's what's going to get me a contract.

"I've got enough experience under my belt playing international football to deal with situations like this and I'm sure things will work out in the long run."

Vassell has 14 England caps and scored ten goals in the Premiership last term but he knows that this season is the big one.

"This is going to be a big year for me, but I just have to work hard and not look at it any differently from any other season," added Vassell.