Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton has joined Nottingham Forest on an emergency loan until 2 January.
The 27-year-old Scottish right-back has been out of favour under Paul Lambert, having joined Villa from Tottenham Hotspur in August 2011. Hutton started 29 games and made two substitue appearances last season but lost his place this season to Matthew Lowton.
Chairman Omar Al Hasawi said: “Like most of the signings we have made, Alan brings great experience to our squad. He has played at the very highest level and will be a big asset to us over the next six weeks.”
Sean O’Driscoll added: “We have been looking to add another defender to the squad for some time. We enquired about quite a few people but clubs are reluctant to let their players go which is understandable with the busy Christmas period coming up.
“Alan has great Premier League experience and is looking to put himself in the shop window, so it’s a deal that suits all parties. He can play in various defensive roles and is a good character and hopefully the loan deal with benefit both parties.”
The Scottish international has 28 caps and began his career at Glasgow Rangers before moving to Spurs in 2008 in a deal believed to be worth £9 million.
Hutton will be available for Saturday’s game against Wolves.