Gary Gardner makes Brighton & Hove Albion loan switch

Brighton & Hove Albion have completed the signing of Aston Villa midfielder Gary Gardner on a four-month loan deal.

The 22-year-old, who spent two months on loan at Sheffield Wednesday last season, has become Brighton manager Sami Hyypia's 10th signing of the summer.

Gardner could make his Seagulls debut in tonight's Capital One Cup match with Swindon Town.

"Gary is a quality midfielder who we have been aware of for some time. When we knew he was available, we wanted to bring him here as he will give us another quality option in the middle of the park," Hyypia told Brighton's official website.

"Gary has had a tough couple of seasons due to injury, but he showed during a spell with Sheffield Wednesday last season that he is over those problems. We hope this loan spell will benefit everyone: Gary, us and Aston Villa.

"He is the type of midfielder who is active and mobile, but very importantly he has real quality on the ball - and is also capable of producing things from set pieces."

Gardner, who will remain at Brighton until January 1, has been handed the number 19 shirt at the Amex Stadium.