The highly-rated midfielder moved across the Midlands on the final day of the loan window on November 24, scoring on his debut in the 2-1 defeat at Brighton before being forced off in the second half of last weekend's loss at Portsmouth due to an ear infection. Thursday's news that Villa midfielder Jermaine Jenas has been ruled out for the rest of the season having undergone Achilles surgery sparked fears they may recall Gardner but Thorn has stated the 19-year-old will be at the Ricoh Arena for the remainder of his agreement. "We've got him for the month and then after that they have a recall (clause) on him," Thorn said. Asked whether Jenas' injury means Villa will opt to activate that option at the end of this month, Thorn added: "He's their player, that's their decision. We'd love to keep him, I'd love to have done a lot of things, but we'll deal with the situation when it arises." Gardner has had a scan on his troublesome ear and is set to return to training on Friday, with the youngster likely to be fit for Saturday's visit of Hull.
