Aston Villa have appointed former Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich assistant manager Michael Henke as their new head of scouting.

The 55-year-old, who has also held an assistant role with Koln, has been praised by Villa boss Paul Lambert.

"In the European game he has an unbelievable wealth of experience and an enviable network of contacts. It's a great thing for Villa that we have been able to attract a man of his calibre," Lambert told reporters.

Meanwhile, Henke stated: "This is a similar role to one I held at Bayern when Jurgen Klinsmann became manager and I am looking forward to helping identify players who will enhance Villa."

Villa open their Premier League season against West Ham United on Saturday.