In case you missed last week’s big news, Michael Beale left his post as assistant manager of Aston Villa to take up the role of first team manager at Championship side, QPR.
It left Villa with a huge hole to fill with many calling Beale the ‘brains’ behind it all wherever he has been with Steven Gerrard.
But the club acted swiftly and from losing one assistant to a Championship team, they gained another, from another - bringing in Blackpool head coach Neil Critchley.
They quickly turned a bleak situation into a positive with Critchley even being seen as an upgrade by many.
That’s not to say Beale won’t be missed, though. He was a huge voice on the training ground and a big positive influence on the players.
His relationship with many could even sway some to leave Villa Park this summer for West London.
And whilst we’re not expecting Ollie Watkins or Jacob Ramsey or any real big hitters to leave the club - it’s certainly possible that some of the fringe and younger members of the playing squad could follow Beale to Loftus Road.
BirminghamWorld have picked out nine who we feel are genuine options to make the move.
5. Kaine Kesler-Hayden
Started the season in League Two with Swindon Town before moving up to MK Dons at the top end of League One. The next step up for him would be the Championship though next season may come a little too soon. Potential, though. Photo: Jane Russell
6. Ben Chrisene
Featured in the first team squad numerous times towards the back end of the season though never actually played any minutes in the Premier League. Very highly rated but he’ll find it even harder to break in next season with the additions only expected to grow. A loan to the Championship may be an option. | Getty Images
7. Tim Iroegbunam
Like Chrisene, Iroegbunam featured in the first team squad plenty towards the back end of the season though he actually made a number of appearances - even from the start. He didn’t look out of place in the first team which is a great credit to him but may struggle for minutes next season. His relationship with Beale could see a loan move to West London. | Getty Images
8. Carney Chukwuemeka
Chukwuemeka is a difficult one, especially with the contract situation not yet resolved. It’s doubtful he himself would want a move to the Championship but he’s failed to really impress in his Villa appearances to date and a step down would guarantee him starts. Unlikely but stranger things have happened. | Getty Images