Aston Villa are considering ending Danny Drinkwater's loan spell after the midfielder was involved in a violent altercation with team-mate Jota.
Sportsmail sources claim Drinkwater, who joined Villa on loan until the end of the season in January, headbutted Jota in training on Monday during an angry exchange with his colleague.
The flashpoint leaves the 30-year-old's stint at Villa Park in serious jeopardy, with club officials said to be giving serious consideration to cutting short his spell in the Midlands.
It is understood talks with regards to Drinkwater's future took place on Tuesday, but a final decision on whether he returns to Chelsea is yet to be made.