Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood still regards Joe Bennett and Nathan Baker as part of his long-term plans.

The Birmingham Mail says Baker and Bennett are not finished as Aston Villa players despite moving on loan this summer.

Bristol City secured the services of Baker, 24, on a season-long deal while Bennett, 25, moved to Bournemouth until January as the Cherries come to terms with their left-back crisis.

Villa's coaching team believe they still have the potential to become key players in the future and boss Tim Sherwood reaffirmed his faith in the pair by extending their contracts last month.