Hendrie hopes to stay at Villa

Lee Hendrie wants to finish his career at Aston Villa and insists that despite considering a loan move to get first-team football he still has a good working relationship with David O’Leary.

The former England midfielder was suspended for the opening part of the season after incurring a three-match ban for a sending-off against FA Cup giantkillers Tamworth in a friendly.

A knee operation further delayed his return and only now is Hendrie easing his way back as a first-team substitute.

Hendrie knows a short spell away from Villa Park may help him regain match fitness if he cannot force his way back into the starting line-up.

But the 28-year-old has a testimonial next season after more than a decade’s service to Villa and has no desire to leave the midlands club.

Hendrie, who made his one England appearance under Glenn Hoddle seven years ago, said: “Going out on loan is maybe a possibility to consider to get some games under my belt if things aren’t going well for me, maybe around Christmas time.

“But I want to finish my career at Villa and play a major part in the future. The loan is just one thing to consider.

“It has been a frustrating start to the season but I’m thinking positive and believe I can get my place back.

“I’ve always got on well with the gaffer and remember he showed great faith in me when he first came here two and a half years ago.

“I honestly had thought my days were numbered at Villa had Graham Taylor remained in charge but the gaffer showed a lot of belief in me.”