Aston Villa have finally returned to the Premier League after a three-year absence, securing their place at English football's top table after their 2-1 victory over Derby County in the Championship playoff final.
Nine players have been released already, while reinforcements are clearly needed at Villa Park ahead of the new campaign. Making the right moves in the market and getting players to adapt quickly to the gulf in quality is the hardest part of promotion - just ask Fulham and Cardiff.
Many loan players who were vital to the club’s promotion push have since returned to their parent clubs and there is a wait to see whether they will return.