Aston Villa midfielder Joe Cole has reportedly requested a loan move to the Championship.

The Daily Express is reporting Cole has spoken with Villa boss Tim Sherwood about the possibility of a loan move to England's second tier.

The former England international is understood to be eager to find regular first team football and is prepared to drop down a division to make it happen.

Cole, who counts West Ham United, Chelsea, Liverpool and Lille as his former clubs, has not been able to secure a spot in the Villans' first XI since joining the club on a two-year deal following his release from the Hammers last summer.