Gabby Agbonlahor has shed a stone in weight to prove he is fit enough to play for Aston Villa again, writes Neil Moxley in the Sunday People .

The former England international has been on a gut-busting exercise plan to reduce the flab in the hope of saving boss Steve Bruce a swoop in the January transfer market.

Striker Agbonlahor , 30, has been given a new lease of life since Bruce replaced Roberto di Matteo last month.

And he is clearly following the Geordie’s example – Villa’s boss lost over two stone during the summer after going on a health kick.

..and this is how he looked back in February (
Image:
Aston Villa/Getty)

Agbonlahor started Friday’s 1-1 draw at Brighton.

He did get subbed after only 55 minutes, but Bruce has suggested that a fit and firing Agbonlahor will be a key asset to Villa.
Observers were amazed by the weight Bruce shifted after quitting as Hull boss in July (
Image:
Getty/Sky Sports)

The striker had gone from fans’ favourite to outcast after the fall-out from the club’s relegation last term.

But after being recalled to Villa’s line-up ahead of the derby against Birmingham last month, Agbonlahor is back fighting for fresh opportunities to stake a claim.