The international break is underway but there's still plenty to talk about concerning the Sky Bet Championship.

Whilst there is no on the pitch action to look forward to this weekend in the second tier, there has been plenty of news off of it.

Certainly, it looks set to be a busy part of the season as usual after this final international break of the year and, with that, comes a building transfer rumour mill alongside the usual news stories.

So, that in mind, it's time to take a closer look at things at Villa Park this Friday morning...

Starting with the Sun, it's claimed that Villa and Leeds United are looking into signing Cardiff City winger Kadeem Harris.

The player hasn't featured much for the Bluebirds in the Premier League this season and if Cardiff do not offer him a new deal he might be up for a move.

Meanwhile, for players at the club Dean Smith has offered a potential olive branch to some.

The likes of James Bree and Henri Lansbury have been part of a behind-closed-doors friendly as they look to prove their worth to their new manager - as per the Express and Star.

It does, of course, remain to be seen whether they have done enough.

One man who has proven good enough for the club this year, though, is summer signing John McGinn.

Arguably, he has been the club's best player so far in the campaign and that is why his injury blow - causing him to leave the Scottish national team as per the BBC - will concern greatly.

It's not thought to be a big injury for the midfielder but it is significant enough to deem him a doubt for the Second City derby next weekend.

Cue the sweat...