Aston Villa manager Dean Smith says he “can add” James Collins “to the squad” to solve their centre-back problem. Tommy Elphick’s temporary departure for Hull City has left Smith short, with only James Chester and Axel Tuanzebe the only natural options left.
Midfielder Mile Jedinak and fullback Alan Hutton have been makeshift centre-backs under former manager Steve Bruce, but Smith doesn’t want square pegs in round holes. Collins, who has played for Villa in the past, could provide experience in the backline but he’s someway short of being ready to feature.