Aston Villa defender Ritchie de Laet moves to Royal Antwerp on loan

Aston Villa have announced that Ritchie De Laet has been allowed to sign for Royal Antwerp on a loan deal until the end of the season.

In August 2016, De Laet was brought in to strengthen Villa's bid to get out of the Championship at the first opportunity, but the defender suffered a serious knee injury during the early stages of his time at the club.

The 29-year-old has since returned to make nine appearances in all competitions during the current campaign - which includes five outings in the league - but manager Steve Bruce has decided to give the player the opportunity to return to his homeland.

During the 2006-07 season, De Laet turned professional with Royal Antwerp and played in four league games before moving to England to join Stoke City.

De Laet's exit will also free up space on the Villa wage bill, with the club needing to ensure that they fulfil FFP obligations.