Aston Villa recorded a massive victory against local rivals Birmingham last week that not only meant they had the bragging rights in the city but more importantly moved into the top two.

Steve Bruce’s side are hitting form at just the right time and seven wins in a row demonstrates what a fine job the experienced manager is now doing at Villa Park.

The ex-Hull boss has transformed the club and shifted the weak mentality that had engulfed Villa for years.

However, there are still several players that remain from the darker days at Villa Park and they are unfortunately commanding a significant wage.

Therefore, whether the West Midlands side are a Premier League outfit or still in the second tier come May, they will be desperate to get rid of these two players in the summer.

Whilst Richards has been commended for the way he acts on the training pitch and the influence he has on the younger players, Villa will be hoping he leaves in the summer.

The former Manchester City defender endured a terrible debut season with the club that saw Villa relegated to the Championship and has barely featured since.

Richards clearly isn’t in Steve Bruce’s plans and removing his big wage would be a real success for the club with his contract not expiring until 2019.

The 13-cap England international, who is only 29-years old, would have to make financial sacrifices to leave the club but surely it’s worth it to potentially resurrect his career.

The ex-Fulham forward is another who has had a much tougher spell at Villa Park than he would’ve imagined when signing.

McCormack was bought to the club for their first season in the Championship and was expected to be the main man for a promotion push. As we know, it didn’t happen.

A well-documented falling out with Steve Bruce meant the Scotland international was loaned to Australian side Melbourne City a few months ago and that prevented another move in January as he had already played for Villa as well.

Therefore, his next chance to leave will be in May and despite Bruce insisting he could have a future at the club it’s clear his time is up in the Midlands.

Another on a big wage, McCormack leaving will suit all parties.

Thoughts, Villa fans? Let us know in the comments below.