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Tim Sherwood admits Aston Villa’s summer recruitment policy was risky but is confident his new-look side will soon start to flourish.

The claret and blues signed six of their 12 new players from France or Spain after missing out on other targets closer to home.

Jordan Ayew, Jordan Amavi, Jordan Veretout, Idrissa Gana, Adama Traore and Jose Angel Crespo cost the club over £40million in transfer fees but none of the new arrivals had any Premier League experience.

The pace of the English game has taken some of new recruits by surprise and Villa’s displays have taken a hit as a result.

(Image: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

“We realised when we went down this route to bring in these development players from a different country in large quantities that you’re rolling the dice somewhat,” Sherwood said.

“I’m happy to be in the driving seat. We can only control the future now.

“We’re not surprised we’re in this position.

“It comes as a disappointment certainly.

“I’m not used to losing this many games.

“But we’re working on getting things right on the training ground and that will continue.”

Villa lost the spine of their team in the summer and making quick adjustments was always going to be tough.

As well as the departures of captain Fabian Delph and top goalscorer Christian Benteke. other key exits included Ron Vlaar, Tom Cleverley and even Shay Given - the stopper who ended the season as the No.1.

When Villa faced Bournemouth on the opening day of the season, Ashley Westwood was the only player to remain in the side from the 4-0 defeat to Arsenal in the FA Cup Final.

“We have to find different way because Christian’s gone now, Fabian’s gone, Tom Cleverley’s gone. They were established Premier League footballers but we’re on a new page now.

“We have to move forward and develop the ones we have.

“We’re happy with the squad. We need to move forward and we have to find goals from elsewhere now. That’s an important part of winning football matches.

“As I say, its fine margins these games. They can be won and lost on someone having the ability to smash it in the net. We’re a work in progress.”

Villa take on Stoke City on Saturday at Villa Park in need of three points to lift them out of the bottom three.

Gabby Agbonlahor is facing a race against time to be fit as he recovers from a calf injury.

Adama Traore might be ready to start the game, if selected, after playing an hour for the U21s on Monday.