Aston Villa will be gearing up for their crucial play-off semi-final against Middlesbrough as they look to book a place in the final at Wembley.

Steve Bruce's men were expected to be in the mix for promotion at the start of the season, and whilst they couldn't match the pace set by Cardiff or Wolves, they do still have a chance of returning to the top-flight.

The importance of playing Premier League football next season cannot be understated for Villa, who will struggle to comply with FFP if they are a Championship side.

That could see the likes of John Terry and Jack Grealish leave the club but the pair are sure to stay if the side are promoted.

Therefore, Villa's summer plans are going to centre on what happens in the next week.

However, here we look at THREE players that are sure to leave whatever happens...

The striker has fallen completely out of favour with Bruce after a well-documented arguement and it's fair to say he has played his last game for the club.

A very successful and productive loan spell in Australia earlier in the season might have done enough to convince teams out there to take a chance on the former Scotland international.

It may be tough to shift Richards, who still has a year left on a big contract.

However, the club and player will surely come to some sort of agreement this summer as the current situation is not helping anyone.

The defender needs to go out and play next season.

Samba is certain to move on this summer, as he is out contract and is highly unlikely to get another deal.

Even with John Terry injured, Bruce has preferred to bring Mile Jedinak into defence.

A new centre-back is likely to arrive in the summer, with the former Blackburn man on his way.