Automatic promotion is a dream that has all but faded for Aston Villa fans, with the former Premier League regulars resigned to accepting that their side must navigate the play-offs if they are to return to the top-flight once again.

Manager Steve Bruce will be disappointed in his men's inability to keep pace with the top two but will remain confident that his talented, experienced squad will have enough character to cope with the demands of end of season football.

If the club fail in their quest for promotion then Bruce will be faced with the task of rebuilding once again, that is if chairman Tony Xia decides to keep the former Birmingham City boss on.

However, if he does stay and Villa are not promoted, these three bold decisions could make all the difference to finally escaping the second tier...

The former England and Chelsea captain has been unsurprisingly excellent at the heart of the Villa back-line this term, but the ageing central defender doesn't have many years left in him.

It would be easy for Bruce to hand Terry a new one-year deal but perhaps it is time for a fresh approach.

Certain to be on an astronomical wage, the funds could be better utilised elsewhere and there are plenty of aspiring men in the division ready to fill the 37-year-old's boots.

It was nice to have him for a year but Bruce should leave it at just that.

The striker promised so much following his arrival from Brentford in a deal that exceeded £10 million with add ons, yet like many big-money signings at this level, Hogan has simply failed to deliver upon the faith shown in him.

Recovering from two horrific knee injuries whilst at Griffin Park, Hogan scored for fun upon his return in a set-up designed to draw the best from the former Rochdale man, something that hasn't been put into place for him at Villa Park where he is not the main man.

It is clear that Hogan is talented but his talents will never be fully utilised in the West Midlands, so Bruce should consider taking a hit on his investment and allowing a summer transfer.

Bruce revealed that the experienced Scot would not be receiving a new contract unless Villa were promoted to the Premier League but should perhaps reconsider if he can convince the player to commit to a smaller contract.

The former Scotland international doesn't want to leave and would surely be open to a reduced wage packet given the club's financial restrictions following their relegation from the Premier League and his experience is an essential asset within a squad littered with promising youngsters.

Bruce won't be judged by the fans for changing his mind with many keen to see Hutton extend his current deal, with a one-year rolling contract the best option for the club at this stage.

Villa fans, thoughts?