Aston Villa are in a strong position for a crack at the play-offs this season, having put together a run under manager Dean Smith that has seen the Villans up to fifth in the table, with only five matches of the season remaining.

Regardless of where they end up this season, Smith is bound to review his squad in the summer from top to bottom, with decisions on his current playing squad and those out on loan bound to be considered.

For one Villa loanee, 20-year-old defender Mitch Clark it has been a decent season out in League Two, gaining important experience in 40 appearances for Port Vale.

However, a recent update has cast Clark's future into doubt at Villa Park, with him admitting 'nothing has happened' regarding a new deal.

So would Villa be making a mistake in allowing Clark to leave in the summer?

We discuss.........

Alfie Burns

“He’s exactly the sort of youngster that Dean Smith should be looking to get the best out of.

“Smith showed at Brentford just how much he can improve youngsters during his time at Brentford, and he shouldn’t lose that motivation at Aston Villa.

“Clark is a player that could thrive under his management in the coming years.

“I’d be looking to keep him on board.”

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George Dagless

"It's hard to say.

"Predicting a young defender's career is the toughest of all but with the players Villa have in that area it might make sense to move on.

"He will want to play more after going on loan this season and could be tempted to stay with Port Vale."

Gary Hutchinson

“Yes, you've got to keep him, because there’s potential there.

“I’ve seen him a couple of times this season and he’s coped well in League Two.

“He’s only young and has adapted to the physical side of the game.

“They should hang on to him and see if they can secure him a League One loan.”