Aston Villa manager David O'Leary has dismissed media reports today linking former Republic of Ireland star Steve Staunton with a move away from the club.
O'Leary said the 34-year-old defender was a "vital part" of the Aston Villa set-up but added that he wouldn't stand in the player's way should he want to leave.
"What I wouldn't do is stand in Steve's way if he felt he wasn't going to play regularly here and he felt it was time to get a longer contract at another club," he said.
Staunton is facing a stiff battle to figure in O'Leary's plans this season as the former Leeds boss is expected to play either J Lloyd Samuel or Daniel Jackman at left-back.
The Drogheda man has made 335 appearances in two stints at the Birmingham club and boasts 102 international caps.