Sorensen determined to fight for his place at Villa Park

Thomas Sorensen has dismissed speculation that he is looking to leave Aston Villa, vowing to fight for his first team spot.

The Denmark international, who has played in more than 60 matches for his country, lost his No 1 spot to the on-loan Liverpool goalkeeper Scott Carson. However, he insisted reports saying he was ready to leave Villa Park after four years are well wide of the mark.

"These stories make me look like I've given up and I'm not willing to fight for my place. That's rubbish," said Sorensen, who has made more than 130 appearance since joining Villa in 2003. "Basically I've not even been fit, so I couldn't give the manager a decision to make.

"Now I am fit and I want to give the manager a selection problem. I've said all along to everyone at Aston Villa that I'm here to fight for my place.

"I'm well aware of the situation. Scott has done well, but I have to work hard and wait for my chance. That's been the bottom line.

"When the chance comes, hopefully I'll show what I can do. The most important thing is playing first-team football, that's no secret, but I'm not looking to leave the club to do that. That's never been my intention."

Sorensen added: "I've got one year left on my deal and obviously if we get to next year and I'm still not playing, I would have to look at different alternatives.

"At the moment I'm fully committed to the club and I want to fight for my place. I want to push Scott all the way and that's what I'm determined to do."