Tom Hanks' special Villa message ahead of final

Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks has shared a special message ahead of Aston Villa's Europa League final.

In an eight-second clip sent to BBC Radio WM, the Hollywood star and Villa fan said: "This is Tom Hanks in the United States of America, thinking one thing and one thing only, go Villa."

The Forrest Gump legend's good wishes came before ardent supporter Prince William also wished the squad luck in Istanbul, saying "Come on Villa!".

Wednesday's match will be Villa's first European final since winning the European Cup in 1982, while opponents Freiburg have never been in a major continental showpiece of any kind.

Hanks and the Prince of Wales are not the only famous people to support the club, which also counts actor David Bradley amongst its fans.

Speaking to the BBC on Monday, Bradley, who is known for playing Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films, recalled the first match he attended in 1994, where the "atmosphere was so amazing".

"I was with the Royal Shakespeare Company for many years, but we always had Saturday matinees, that was in those days where all the games played on Saturday.

"I never got a chance to go to Villa Park, but as soon as my contract finished in 94 I got tickets for a game against Everton," Bradley said.

Earlier this month, William was photographed cheering from the stands during Villa's 4-0 semi-final victory against Nottingham Forest.

Manager Unai Emery confirmed William joined in with post-match celebrations.

"He was in the dressing room with the players and with me, and of course, he is so happy as well," Emery said.

William, patron of the Football Association, is a passionate Villa supporter and has followed the Midlands club since he was a schoolboy.

Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.