There's a long way to go for Steve Bruce and Aston Villa but the early signs for the club under the former Manchester United defender have been solid, as they've remained unbeaten in his three matches in charge. 

Now sat six points behind the play-off spots, Bruce has a crucial few months ahead to turn Villa's season around and attempt to lead them to an immediate return to the Premier League, with the January transfer window set to be a crucial part of the club's season.

New arrivals could well come in, though Villa enjoyed a flurry of activity in the summer, but players going out will be equally important as Bruce looks to control his competitive squad, ousting the deadwood to free up wages and space within his squad.

Here, we've identified two players Steve Bruce has to get rid of in January- let us know if you agree in the comments!

Hit Bruce below to see TWO players he has to axe in the January transfer window!

Alan Hutton

The Scottish defender has failed to take his chance in the first-team count following an injury to Ritchie De Laet and the 31-year-old's form has been abysmal. leading to question marks regarding the veteran's

Naturally, this has lead to question marks regarding the veteran's long-term suitability to Steve Bruce's promotion-chasing side.

There's no doubting that the Championship is the right level for the defender, but Aston Villa clearly aren't the right side and showing him the exit door in January would be a wise move.

Aly Cissokho

A French international who has once considered to be a top defender in Europe, boasting experience with the likes of Lyon, Valencia and Liverpool.

Now 29-year-old, the full-back has failed to show those level of performances during his career in England.

Always looking prone to a mistake, Cissokho's compatriot Jordan Amavi is unlikely to give up his first-team spot anytime soon and Cissokho should find his way out the exit door as a result.