Aston Villa fans are surely scratching around for some good news at the moment and it looks as though they might have been handed some.

After the play-off loss to Fulham back in May, things have quickly become tough for the club with financial woes mounting and departures of key members of the playing staff and other departments.

After a meeting yesterday, though, the Express and Star has reported that things might be a little rosier than previously depicted - though they are still in a tough patch.

Indeed, it's thought that Steve Bruce is encouraged by news about a potential budget to spend on players this window - though it will be decreased - and that he is ready to stay put and go for promotion next year.

Meanwhile, other cuts are also thought to not be as bad as initially feared and, as the report says, some are even suggesting the club could still be able to fight to keep hold of Jack Grealish.

The Verdict

Villa are not out of the woods but this is a positive update after a mountain of downbeat news in recent days and weeks.

There's evidently a chance that they can be competitive next season and so let's see what they can wrangle in the coming weeks.

Thoughts, Villa fans? Let us know below!