Aston Villa recall Gary Gardner

Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish has decided to recall Gary Gardner from a loan spell with Coventry City.

The Championship side had hoped to extend the midfielder's stay at the Ricoh Arena after the Christmas period.

However, Villa have sustained a number of injuries recently and McLeish is in need of Gardner's services.

"It's very disappointing for us but I must admit I was expecting it," said Coventry boss Andy Thorn. "Alex has had a dreadful run of injuries and he obviously has to put his own club first.

"We're very grateful that he allowed Gary to come here and I would love to think that Villa's problems will clear up over Christmas and Alex will decide that he can spare him again some time in the future."

The 19-year-old joined the Sky Blues in late November.