Aston Villa and Birmingham City will resume their ferocious rivalry next year after the latter slipped hurdled into the Championship this season. 

Though it will no doubt be little consolation to the Villa Park faithful, their relegation into the second tier at least restores a big date in the proverbial footballing calendar.

While their plight is likely to come as a delight to those across the way at St. Andrew's, perhaps the Blues may well be advised to pounce on the fire sale likely to occur at the home of their arch rivals.

Moving for some players who've served the club so awfully this season may not be the most popular of moves, but there are likely to be some hidden gems within those ranks that simply just haven't done it this season.

Of course it'll be controversial. But what's football without a bit of drama? Just 22 blokes kicking a ball about. Sounds weird when you put it that way.

[ffc-gallery]

PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE 3 ASTON VILLA STARS WHO'D BE A PERFECT FIT FOR BIRMINGHAM CITY.

st andrewssss

[/ffc-gallery]

Joleon Lescott

Lescott

Ok, hear us out on this one. Granted, the Villa 'defender' has come under criticism recently for comments following their drop, though the fact remains he remains a vastly experienced defender.

Having won the Premier League with Manchester City and appeared for England a number of times, there's little doubt the 33-year old could be formidable in the Championship.

If he keeps his mouth shut/phone locked. Let's not forget, he was actually playing quite well with West Bromwich Albion just a year ago.

Rudy Gestede

Gestede

Rudy Gestede will always be connected to this nightmare season due to the fact the Frenchman was the player unfortunate to replace Christian Benteke in the frontline.

While he's done little in the way of doing that, the towering former Blackburn ace is a proven goalscorer in the Championship and could provide Gary Rowett with some much needed firepower.

Kieran Richardson

Richardson

Yes, Kieran Richardson is still at Aston Villa and making a living as a Premier League footballer.

A little harsh perhaps, but it's more because his sporadic appearances have all but wiped him from the history books!

Here is a man who played for Manchester United and England, who boasts a vast amount of experience in the top flight and is still only 31.

He'd be a great signing in the second tier, able to fill a number of positions across the defence and midfield.