Newcastle are set to pounce on Chelsea central defender Robert Huth who is desperate for a loan deal in January and it was thought was certain to come to Villa Park for six months prior to the World Cup in Germany.

Graeme Souness playing Titus Bramble at the moment, is desperate for a temporary fix and the appeal of the North East in January looks as if it might win over the possible attractions of Birmingham and Villa Park.

It is clear O'Leary wishes to swap Liam Ridgewell for another 21 year old central defender with less experience so this should be seen as a positive move for those that think he can do no wrong.

I'm not convinced however, as it won't do us any favours and we're only providing experience for somebody else's player when we all know Ridgewell should have it - unless of course O'Leary is bringing Huth in specifically as cover or he knows that with Huth we're certain to win the FA Cup.