Ryan Bertrand has refused to rule out a permanent move to Aston Villa at the end of the season but insists he will take things one game at a time until then.
The twice capped England international suggested anything was possible despite manager Paul Lambert's fears about the sort of fee it might take to prise a Champions League winner from Chelsea.
The 24-year-old was expected to be Chelsea’s second choice left-back behind Ashley Cole this season, but Cesar Azpilicueta’s impressive form saw Bertrand fall further down the pecking order.
However, Bertrand is now focused on improving a Villa side that have managed only two victories in their last ten Premier League games, not to mention an embarrassing cup defeat to League one Sheffield United earlier this month.
"I'm just here to concentrate on each game as it comes and to get back playing regularly," Bertrand told The Birmingham Mail.
"I'll leave all that stuff until the end of the season.
"You can't rule anything out. It's important, first and foremost, that my performances are good enough. I need to concentrate on each game.
"I've settled in quite easily. It's fortunate, to be fair, because I know half the team through England at younger ages. It has been good. It's great to be involved in a derby for my first home game."
Villa boss Paul Lambert expressed his delight at adding a player of Bertrand’s quality to his squad but was cautious over the possibility of a permanent move.
"He's Chelsea's player and we're thankful to them for letting him come here," Lambert said.
"What Ryan's value is I haven't a clue. He's played in the biggest club competition and won it so he knows how to do it.
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"That's the main thing, the value of him. If you are buying him you're not buying a novice, you're buying someone who has won the European Cup and I'm pretty sure they won't come cheap."
Bertrand will make his home debut for Villa on Wednesday evening as they take on West Brom in a West Midlands derby.
