Tim Sherwood will bring three of his loan players back in for Aston Villa training before the end of this campaign to assess whether he wants them in his squad next season.

Gary Gardner and Joe Bennett will report back soon from Nottingham Forest and Brighton respectively with the regular Championship season over, while Callum Robinson is set to return once Preston North End’s play-off involvement finishes.

Midfielder Gardner, 22, struck four goals in 18 appearances for Forest after joining in January, while left-back Bennett, 25, has done well in a struggling side. Both players have one year left on their Villa contracts.

Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood will decide the futures of three loan players returning to the club

Gary Gardner will return to the club before the end of the season and will be assessed by Sherwood

Bennett attracted interest from Watford at the start of the season and the new Premier League side could return, while other Championship clubs are expected to enquire about his services.

Neither can play a part in Villa’s season due to regulations, but Sherwood said: ‘It gives me an opportunity to have a look at them. I think it helps them out, helps the club out, helps every one out, for me to be able to do that. They haven’t got to wait till pre-season for me to give them a decision.

‘I remember seeing Gary Gardner years ago, he scored twice in an 18s game I watched against Arsenal – box to box player. I’ve watched him a couple times this season, he has been playing as more of a holding midfield player.

‘He’s just like his brother, likes to shoot anywhere on the field, both feet, good ball striker, I need to assess him at close hands.

Callum Robinson will complete his play-off duties with League One Preston North End before returning

Joe Bennett has performed well for struggling Brighton in the Championship this season

‘I will know within ten days, two weeks whether he’s for me or not. I’m hoping he is and I’m hoping Bennett is as well – and Robinson depending on when he comes back.’

Robinson, 20, has scored seven goals in 27 Preston games and will face Chesterfield on Thursday in the League One play-off semi final first leg.

‘I think it’s been a very good loan. Simon Grayson and Preston have been excellent for him. He’s played first and foremost but he’s done well.’

Darren Bent will not be recalled by the club and is going on holiday after Derby's season ended

Darren Bent will not be recalled, going on holiday instead now Derby County’s season is over. He is out of contract and will study his options this summer.