Eric Lichaj joins Leeds from Villa

Villa have agreed to let defender Eric Lichaj join Championship side Leeds on a short-term loan.

The 22-year-old American made his Premier League debut against Albion and featured in games against Tottenham and Manchester City towards the end of 2010.

But Lichaj has found his first-team opportunities limited in recent weeks and has fallen behind on-loan Tottenham right-back Kyle Walker and Carlos Cuellar in the pecking order.

Lichaj, who has represented the United States up to under-20 level, has previously enjoyed loan spells at Leyton Orient and Lincoln City.

Leeds boss Simon Grayson said: "A deal has been agreed for Eric to join us and we're delighted Aston Villa have agreed to let him come.

"He is a player that they have high hopes for and they believe him coming to Leeds will be beneficial for him and us.

"A few other Championship clubs were interested so we are delighted to get a player that has played international football at different levels."