The international break has come at the wrong time for Aston Villa, after an impressive 3-0 victory away at promotion rivals Derby County.

It's now three wins in five league games for new boss Dean Smith, whose side is now up to 11th in the Championship table and find themselves just four points off the play-off places.

The small matter of a Second City derby is on the horizon after a short international break, where Villa will look to secure a massively important win that could really prove themselves as promotion contenders.

The last few years have been so difficult for Villa since relegation from the Premier League, none other than a play-off final loss, as well as turmoil in the summer with Financial Fair Play problems.

The likes of Libor Kozak have been dreadful signings for Villa in the past, and here, we take a look at three players that are en-route to flop status at Villa Park...

This is a no-brainer.

McCormack currently finds himself out on loan at Central Coast Mariners after a dismal time at Aston Villa - the 32-year old arrived from Fulham for a fee of £12million in 2016.

Known for being a renowned goalscorer, the Scotsman netted just three goals in 20 games for the West Midlands club and goes down as one of the most underwhelming signings in the club's history.

It's hard to believe that Micah Richards still finds himself under Villa's books.

The 30-year old, who was Villa's captain in their relegation season from the Premier League, hasn't made an appearance for Villa in around two years.

He needs to force a move away from Villa Park - his wages are bound to affect Villa's precarious financial problems.

Tshibola arrived at Villa Park from Reading in 2016 and was regarded as one of the Championship's most brightest prospects after a string of impressive performances for the Berkshire club.

But after making just eight appearances for the Villans, loan spells at Nottingham Forest and MK Dons were unsuccessful, and the midfielder currently finds himself out on loan at Kilmarnock.

He has failed to live up to expectations...