Nicky Shorey drops down a division to join Forest

Aston Villa left-back Nicky Shorey has agreed to join Nottingham Forest on a one-month loan deal, the Championship club confirmed on Tuesday afternoon.

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Nicky Shorey in a rare outing for Villa this season

Despite starting the first five games of the season under Martin O'Neill, Shorey has seen his first-team chances limited by the signing of Stephen Warnock.

His only appearance since the end of August came in a 1-0 win over Cardiff in the Carling Cup on September 23 and now Shorey is stepping down a division in order to enjoy some regular first-team football.

"We're delighted - there is no doubting the lad's ability and what he has done in his career," Forest manager Billy Davies told the club's official website. "I've admired him since his days at Reading and followed his progression through to the national side. Nicky is a fantastic addition to the squad."

Shorey impressed during Reading's two-year stay in the Premier League between 2006 and 2008, winning England recognition when appearing in friendly internationals against Brazil and Germany.

He joined Villa following Reading's relegation to the second tier, making his Premier League debut in a 4-2 win over Manchester City.