Steve Bruce hails Jordan Amavi's return to form for Aston Villa

The left-back's season was ended early last year after a cruciate knee ligament rupture while training with the France Under-21 squad.

But after forcing his way back into the Villa line-up he has been excellent during the club's upturn in form under the new boss. Bruce said: "Jordan has really come into his own. I have been very pleased with him.

"It's been fantastic to see him back and performing like he is. Let's hope he can stay injury-free."

Bruce also rubbished reports that striker Ross McCormack is fighting for his Villa career.

The boss said the Scot remains an important part of his squad – and will become even more so with the likes of Joathan Kodjia, Albert Adomah, Jordan Ayew and Rudy Gestede are expected to leave for the African Cup of Nations.

Former Villa favourite Lee Hendrie has joined non-league Redditch United.

The one-time England international joins former Villa team-mate Darren Byfield, who manages The Valley Stadium outfit, in the seventh tier of English football.

Hendrie, 39, made more than 250 appearances for Villa over 12 years.

He returns for a second stint at Redditch and also had spells at Chasetown and Tamworth.