When Charlton play Aston Villa on Saturday, Addicks captain Matt
Holland will be lining up against the club he rejected at the start
of last season.
Holland's former club Ipswich Town accepted a £4.5m bid for the
Republic of Ireland international in summer 2002.
But after speaking to the Villans, Holland decided to spend one more
season at Portman Road before eventually moving to The Valley for
just £750,000 two months ago.
"Obviously there was a bit of talk about me moving to Villa at the
start of last season," said Matt.
"Ipswich gave me permission to speak to them but it wasn't the right
deal at the right time for me, and there were a number of reasons why
I didn't join."
Holland was named as the Tractor Boys player of the year last season
as Ipswich finished just outside the play-off positions, and said he
was happy with how things had worked out.
"I had a good season under Joe Royle last year and now I've been
given an opportunity to play in the Premiership again with Charlton
and I'm really enjoying it," he said.
"I've got no animosity towards Aston Villa - it just wasn't right at
that time and it won't influence how I approach Saturday's game.
I always want to play well and for the team to win, no matter who the
opposition is. Villa are potentially one of the bigger clubs and I'm
sure it will be a difficult match this weekend."
Since his arrival, Holland has started every Premiership match for
the Addicks and has also taken the captain's armband since the start
of the season as well.
"I was made captain a few times in pre-season, which was great, and
that just continued when the season started," he said.
"I've not really spoken to the manager about it, but it's fabulous
for me and something I'm very proud of. Maybe when Richard Rufus is
fit he could take over the armband, but we'll have to see what
happens in the future."

©CAFC.co.uk