Aston Villa have appointed former Real Madrid talent spotter Jeff Vetere as their new chief scout.

Vetere, who also previously worked with Charlton and Newcastle, will have the responsibility of leading Villa's bid to secure the cream of the best young players in the area.

Vetere has been chosen as successor to Ian Storey-Moore and will work closely with new Villa manager Gerard Houllier.

Villa chief executive Paul Faulkner said: 'We're delighted to have Jeff at the club. He comes with a fine pedigree as a talent spotter and is well connected in the game