Davis is looking for a fresh challenge after being starved of first team football at Villa last season.

His international team-mate Aaron Hughes was yesterday reunited with Lawrie Sanchez after agreeing a three-year deal at Fulham and now the Cullybackey man wants to kill off speculation regarding his future.

The 22-year-old has also been linked with a move to the Cottagers although Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate is determined to land Davis.

During a visit to his old primary school yesterday - Buick Memorial in Cullybackey - the midfielder revealed his frustration at a lack of progress on the transfer front.

"Things are a bit up in the air at the minute unfortunately," he said. "I am going back to Villa next week and pre-season training starts on Wednesday. I'll have a chat with the manager then, see where I stand at the club and take it from there.

"Of course it's been a frustrating time for me as every player wants to be playing games on a regular basis.

"It didn't really happen for me last season so it's very important that changes for me next season.

"My name has been linked with a lot of different clubs but I'll wait and see what the gaffer has to say and take it from there. Who knows where I will end up next season."

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland skipper Hughes last night thanked Sanchez for showing faith in him by bringing him to Fulham.

"If Lawrie didn't believe in me he wouldn't have brought me here," said Hughes.

"I have plenty of experience in the Premiership and at international level and he clearly feels I can bring something useful to the team. He has high hopes for Fulham and he wants the club to succeed.

"By putting his faith in me it is a big compliment and I am looking forward to working with him on a daily basis - unlike in the international set-up."