Aston Villa can book their place in the Premier League for next season if they see off Derby County in the play-off final this afternoon.

Dean Smith led a dramatic turnaround in fortunes during the second half of the season at Villa Park, as his side went on a ten-game winning run to make a late play-off surge.

The Midlands giants then saw off West Brom on penalties in the semi-final, and they now have an opportunity to complete the job at Wembley Stadium later on.

A number of Villa players could see their futures at the club dictated by the play-off final results, and one of those is Glenn Whelan who sees his contract expire this summer.

The 35-year-old has been an important player for Villa this season by providing midfield stability during his 38 appearances in all competitions. However, he was dropped for Conor Hourihane in the play-off semi-final second leg, but he could still have a role to play for Villa at Wembley.

Speaking ahead of the occasion, Whelan was quick to play down any contract speculation and insisted his focus is on getting Villa over the line at Wembley.

"My own future is not an issue," he told Express and Star.

[ad_pod ]

"I signed a two-year contract to get this club back in the Premier League and I was a whisker away last year. Hopefully I have a chance this year. I have not spoken to the manager. Everyone at the club is just waiting to see. We don’t want to upset anything."

The Verdict

Whelan is right to not make any bold comments regarding his future until Villa's promotion fate is decided.

However, Whelan and many of the other Villa players will be well aware that their playing futures will be certainly be hinging on the outcome of Monday's clash.

You would think that Whelan will be desperate to get on the pitch at Wembley to help influence the fate of the club as well as his own career.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.