Steve Bruce's impressive honeymoon period ended this weekend when his Aston Villa side were defeated in a tight match against high-flying Leeds United.

This was the first time that the Villains had tasted defeat since Steve Bruce had taken over from Roberto di Matteo.

It was an impressive run of four wins and three draws leading up to last weekend's match.

But perhaps the loss against Leeds was a blessing in disguise as it shows that Aston Villa are not infallible.

The squad that Steve Bruce inherited is far from perfect and the former Hull manager will be keen to put his own personal stamp on this team.

The January window is almost upon us and this is Bruce's chance to ship out some deadwood and get in some of his own players.

Here are three players Aston Villa need to show the exit door and two they need to bring in this January.

OUT - Ashley Westwood

One area that Steve Bruce might look to improve in January is his central midfield options.

His current trio of Aaron Tshibola, Mile Jedinak and Gary Gardner are all competent but Ashley Westwood is not up to standards.

Aston Villa fans would not be disappointed to see the former Crewe man leave and there are bound to be several Championship clubs vying for his signature.

OUT - Libor Kozak

Things just haven't worked out for Libor Kozak at Villa Park.

The Czech Republic international striker has not scored since December 2013 and is not getting any game time in the West Midlands.

It is perhaps in the best interests of both parties that he leaves B6 this January.

OUT - Rudy Gestede

Aston Villa have Jonathan Kodjia, Ross McCormack, Jordan Ayew and Gabby Agbonlahor as their striker options so perhaps Rudy Gestede is surplus to requirements.

The Villains could probably get a sizeable fee for the physical aerial powerhouse.

The Benin international might fancy a move to the Premier League if the offers come in this January.

IN - Dale Stephens

If Aston Villa are searching for a central midfielder, they should go all out to land Brighton's Dale Stephens.

The tidy central midfielder is so vital to the Seagulls' success with his ball retention, passing range and ability to provide defensive solidity and attacking quality too.

Stephens is out of contract in the summer so he could be available on the cheap.

IN - Abel Hernandez

If Aston Villa sell Rudy Gestede, Libor Kozak and Rushian Hepburn-Murphy, as various rumours suggest they might, then perhaps they need to bring in another striker.

Jonathan Kodjia and Jordan Ayew are set to leave for the African Cup of Nations, leaving Bruce down to just Agbonlahor and under-performing McCormack.

Hull striker Hernandez has worked with Bruce before at the KC Stadium and scored 20 goals in the league to fire the Tigers back to the top flight last season.