Villa monitor Richard Stearman and Shaun Maloney

Rumour and speculation is mounting that Martin O'Neill has earmarked who he wants to bring to Villa Park in January and the two names doing the rounds today have connections to Martin O'Neill from previous clubs.

Current Leicester player Richard Stearman, only nineteen, is seen as a right back with bags of potential. he has played for England U17's and many at Leicester see him as a future right back for England. He signed for Leicester after Mr O'Neill had left but to think the manager still doesn't have the odd connection or two would be daft.

The other name mentioned today is Celtic striker Shaun Maloney. Maloney was rumoured to be of interest to Mr O'Neill last week and today Chelsea have also apparently shown an interest if you believe what you read in the Daily Record.

Maloney is a real talent and Mr O'Neill will know this better than most. If Mr O'Neill wants this player he should go all out and get him; who would pick sitting on the bench at Chelsea over playing for Martin O'Neill and Aston Villa?

No doubt rumours are going to be all over the place now as January approaches but don't expect Mr O'Neill to act quickly, he has a history of leaving it late in the transfer window but when he does bring someone in they normally add strength and talent to the team.