VILLA FORCED TO RECALL SAMUEL

Samuel has been a success at Priestfield since joining in October, with The Gills losing only one game during his time at the club.

However, with Villa's squad reduced to the bear bones in the wake of their 2-0 defeat to Leicester City on Saturday, Villans boss John Gregory has been forced to cut short the youngster's stay with the First Division side.

"He was a fantastic loan signing and is a Premier player. It's a shame he's had to go back but we appreciate the favour," boss Andy Hessenthaler said.

"We might be able to get him back later on in the season but we'll have to wait and see on that one."

Villa already have Swedish centre half Olof Mellberg sidelined and things got worse when Turkish ace Alpay (pictured) was stretchered off against The Foxes with damaged ankle ligaments.