Dean Smith has done a fine job since taking over at Aston Villa with the side now in the final play-off position and playing some great football.

It's particularly impressive when you consider he's only had the notoriously difficult January window to reshape his squad.

Therefore, the summer is going to give him a lot more time to get in players that will suit his style and that should excite supporters who can see they have a talented manager in charge.

However, departures are inevitable too, with Villa having a very big squad right now and there are several players that need to be shipped out.

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Here we look at THREE players who will already realise they aren't part of Smith's plans and will be looking for a summer exit...

Orjan Nyland

It's slightly harsh to include the Norwegian international as he is currently out injured but the reality is Smith didn't rate him and you can understand why as he was unconvincing.

Prior to an Achilles picked up in late December, Villa had already agreed to sign Lovre Kalinic, who was to replace Nyland.

So, he should be back during the summer and you would expect a move so the 28-year-old can get regular football elsewhere.

Mile Jedinak

The Australian veteran is out of contract in the summer and it's widely accepted he will be on the move.

Firstly, he can't get into the team now and there are a lot of better options ahead of him and he also commands a big salary that Villa will be desperate to get off their wage bill.

Birkir Bjarnason

The Icelandic international is another who can't force his way into the team and again you can see why.

Bjarnason hasn't been consistent enough since arriving in England and has only shown flashes of what he is capable of.

There's sure to be interest from abroad in the former Basel man and a move would suit all parties.