Aston Villa midfielder Chris Herd joins Wigan Athletic on loan

Wigan Athletic have signed Aston Villa midfielder Chris Herd on loan for the rest of the season.

The 25-year-old Australian has struggled for appearances at Villa Park this term, playing just three games in all competitions.

Wigan are currently five points from safety in the Championship table following four defeats in their last six games.

"I'm delighted that Chris has been able to join us on loan until the end of the season," Latics boss Malky Mackay told the club's official website. "He's a player I've looked at a lot over a period of time. I feel that his energy, his athleticism and his tenacity will be things that can really help us out.

"He's got Premier League and Football League experience and he's another young player who wants to kick on at our club and solidify a position here, so I'm delighted we've managed to get him."

Wigan continue their fight for survival on Saturday when they make the trip to promotion-chasing Ipswich Town.