The clear out begins...

The clear out at Villa Park has begun in earnest as news filters through that three players aren't to be offered new deals.

Simon Dawkins departure won't be a massive shock, as his presence has barely registered since his arrival on loan from Spurs during the transfer window.

A handful of substitute cameo appearances never really gave him the stage to impress with Villa faithful. Though he seems to be blessed with good ball skills, there always seemed to question mark over his pace and a last chance saloon appearance as the Wigan game petered out did little to enhance his chances.

Hopefully he can go back to the MLS where he appeared to have found a niche.

Veteran goalie Andy Marshall's departure was no surprise (but then we wouldn't be THAT surprised if we re-signed him yet again). Villa's impressive Swiss stopper Benji Siegrist is now twenty one years old and can surely be trusted to become the club's number three, while Bradley Watkins and Craig Hill have both put in impressive performances between the sticks for Under 21s this season, Watkins' heroics being a major factor in the Next Gen triumph.

More surprising is that we are saying goodbye to useful fill-in fullback Eric Lichaj.  Only as recently as the Chelsea game, Eric had showed how capable he can be be when called upon and his ability to slot in at either right back or left back was a handy one to have. Fans will be wondering if Chris Herd is to be the understudy right back or whether a new signing is in the offing.