De la Cruz talk played down

De la Cruz was quoted in the Ecuadorian media about interest from both Rangers and Middlesbrough.

However, his UK representative Barry McIntosh has played down the comments saying:

"There is no concrete interest in Ulises, he is very happy with life at Aston Villa," he told planetfootball.

"He is determined to give it a go at Villa, clubs may have watched him in the past, but he is looking to earn a regular place under David O'Leary.

"He is not looking to leave and will begin the season with Aston Villa."

Rangers have already questioned their reported interest, with Gers boss Alex McLeish dismissing claims his former Hibernian charge would be joining him at Ibrox.

"I haven't spoken to Ulises since I left Hibs," said McLeish. "I don't know why he's chosen to say that."