According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea have sent Ryan Bertrand on loan for the rest of the season, and have now added him to their list of 23 players who have been sent on loan to gain experience, which is a testament to the blend of quality and quantity in their 25-man squad for the season.

Chelsea have been active in the transfer market, bringing back their former youngster Nemanja Matic from Benfica in a permanent deal in the region of £20 million. The signing has increased the club’s tally of players to pick from, and increases pressure on the current midfielders for a place in the squad. Jose Mourinho has been keeping an eye on his squad from the start of the season, and made sure players like Romelu Lukaku and Victor Moses get regular game time with similar loan moves to Everton and Liverpool respectively. Bertrand brings a wealth of experience to Villa Park, and will be an asset with his quick bursts of pace combined with his tenacity. He has also represented the England national team, and his chances of establishing a spot on the plane to Brazil will also receive a massive lift if he does well for Villa.

Paul Lambert has been active in the loan market, as he also sealed the signing of striker Grant Holt from Wigan Athletic earlier this window, showing signs of intent. Mourinho will be happy about Bertrand receiving the opportunity to display his talent and gain first team experience on a regular basis.