Steve Bruce has given Aston Villa a new lease of life since taking over and has really upped the mood at Villa Park.

There was a real negative vibe surrounding the club when their poor form continued into this season.

Roberto di Matteo left Aston Villa hanging precariously above the relegation zone but Steve Bruce has turned things around magnificently so far.

Whether it's a case of inspiring confidence in his players, putting square pegs in square holes or just a stroke of luck, Bruce has helped Villa shoot up the table and set the platform for a promotion challenge.

They are unbeaten in the five games Bruce has overseen so far, with three wins and two draws.

Bruce will be desperate for the January window to come around so that he can start putting his own personal mark on this squad and bring his own players in.

Here are TWO Southampton players that he should consider bringing to Aston Villa in January.

Harrison Reed

Harrison Reed is very much on the outskirts of this Southampton squad and the young central midfielder might look to force a loan move for some more regular game time.

The 21-year-old has played just twice for the first team this season with both games being in the EFL Cup.

The talented former England under-20 is a midfield playmaker and he would add some competition for Jedinak, Tshibola and Gardner in the middle.

Florin Gardos

Florin Gardos finds himself behind Virgil Van Dijk, Jose Fonte, Maya Yoshida and Jack Stephens so he will need to force a January transfer to get some game time.

The Romanian international is a towering 6'4'' centre half who would really challenge Tommy Elphick and Nathan Baker in the competition to partner James Chester at the back.

The 28-year-old needs to leave St Mary's in January to stop his career from stalling.