Aston Villa have enjoyed a fine rise under Steve Bruce, standing unbeaten in his five matches in charge, and the fans are looking forward to a push towards promotion moving forward.

A lot of work still needs to be done though, as Villa currently sit five points behind Leeds United in sixth-placed, and in such a competitive league clubs need all the help they can get- and Villa fans are debating whether that statement applies to Joey Barton.

Sky Sources reported yesterday that the former England international has agreed a mutual termination to his contract with Rangers, which would make Barton available on a free transfer, leading Villa fans to discuss the possibility of his signature.

Barton, a controversial figure, helped Burnley earn promotion to the Premier League last season and is reportedly on Steve Bruce's radar but many Villa fans aren't too happy to see the 34-year-old linked with a move to Villa Park.