Aston Villa goalkeeper Tom Heaton is considering leaving the club in the summer in search of regular game time.

That’s according to the reliable Gregg Evans from The Athletic, with his claims grabbing the attention of numerous Villa supporters online.

Heaton has made just 20 appearances for the club since joining from Burnley in 2019, with Emiliano Martinez establishing himself as Dean Smith’s number one.

The Englishman actually suffered a serious knee injury against his former side last year and hasn’t featured for the club since.

Heaton has been on the bench since December, but even though Villa will offer him an extension, it seems as if he’ll consider a permanent exit in the summer. His current deal, worth £42,000-a-week, still has two years left to run.

Villa fans react

@villareport shared Evans’ claims on Heaton on Twitter on Tuesday morning. Their post got plenty of Villa fans talking, with many understanding over Heaton’s situation.

"Can’t blame him he’s class"

Credit: @JDGchef

"Such a shame with the way things went for him, I was so excited when we signed him. hopefully he can go to a club and perform well, just not if/when he plays us"

Credit: @j_d_richards

"Can’t blame him. Best of luck to him."

Credit: @RJHINTONbot

"You can’t blame him, he’s far too good to be a number 2, but let’s face it he’s never getting a game ahead of emi"

Credit: @UtvJack

"Can't blame him. Jed is capable backup."

Credit: @TheVillanousOne

"Makes sense. Wasted on the bench, but doubt he'll ever get past Emi."

Credit: @MattH1874

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