Berger on Stoke's menu

Stoke City have raided Aston Villa to sign Patrik Berger on loan.

The former Liverpool and Portsmouth star has signed on loan until January 4.

Berger has struggled to break into Martin O'Neill's plans at Villa Park this term and has made just two appearances this season.

The 33-year-old is the second Villa player to pitch up at the Britannia Stadium and he will link up with Lee Hendrie at the club.

The former Czech Republic international is expected to go straight into the squad for this weekend's clash with West Brom.

As Berger arrives at Stoke three players have moved away from the club on loan.

Andy Wilkinson has signed for Blackpool, while Grimsby have snapped up Martin Paterson and Anthony Pulis.