Guzan has made 11 first-team appearances during his time with Villa

Aston Villa keeper Brad Guzan insists the Carling Cup is a major priority for the club after their early exit from the Europa League.

Gabby Agbonlahor's goal saw them through to the fourth round with a 1-0 win over Cardiff City at Villa Park.

"We're taking it very seriously, it was obviously disappointing when we came out of Europe so we want to do well," Guzan told BBC WM.

"That's what it's all about, for us it's another opportunity."

Villa were knocked out of the Europa League in the first round by Rapid Vienna, leaving Martin O'Neill's men to concentrate on domestic competition.

And Guzan is keen to help his team all the way to the Carling Cup final in the New Year.

"At the end of your career you want to be looking at how many Championships you played in, how many finals you've been to and ultimately how much silverware you have," he said.

Guzan is understudy to Brad Friedel in the Premier League but wants to use his cup appearances to give O'Neill some food for thought.

"You just try to go out there and put your best foot forward - I thought the guys did a great job," he said.

Villa will learn the identity of their fourth round opponents when the draw is made on Saturday lunchtime.

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