Hendrie prepares for new horizons

The 30-year-old will be available on a free transfer when his contract expires in a matter of weeks and believes his future will be cleared up over the next week or so. He spent some time at Stoke City this season and they would like to make the deal permanent though he may hedge his bets until the Championship play-off final. Hendrie has said he would ideally like to stay in the Premiership - and the Midlands - which could alert Derby or West Brom, while he has also had interest from Blackburn and Middlesbrough.

Hendrie, who scoring 32 goals in 308 matches for Villa, said:  "I've still no idea what is happening. I know a few clubs are interested, but nothing concrete has been said to me as yet. Stoke City have mentioned about signing permanently, and I have to speak to them about it. If possible I would like to stay in the Premiership. I'd prefer to stay in the Midlands also, but if not then I have no problem in moving."

Hendrie has employed a fitness coach for the summer to make sure he hits the ground running next season, saying: "I'm going to take two weeks off then I've got myself a fitness coach to keep me in shape over the summer. I've got to do that now, to make sure I'm ready for the next chapter."