Jlloyd Samuel has insisted that Aston Villa's experienced players will be key to the club's survival chances.

With 20 matches played, Remi Garde's side sit bottom of the Premier League and are 11 points from safety.

There have been suggestions that Garde has decided to part with a number of the more seasoned members of the squad during this month's transfer window, but former Villa full-back Samuel has encouraged the Frenchman to not be too rash with his exodus.

"He may be building around younger players, but at this stage of the season experience is needed," he told Sky Sports News.

"Those players have been around the Premier League a while and know the league. But, he's the manager, although I think the older players can help the younger ones."

It is believed that Gabriel Agbonlahor is among a list of players that Garde is prepared to sell.