Aston Villa midfielder Shaun Maloney will not be making a return to Glasgow, according to the player's agent.

Ex-Bhoy Maloney has struggled for first-team opportunities in a frustrating 18 months at Villa Park.

The Scotland international has reportedly been suffering from homesickness since moving south of the border in January 2007.

Both Celtic and Rangers are interested in acquiring the 25-year-old's signature, but agent John Halliwell has stated that his client is going nowhere.

"Martin O'Neill does rate him highly," he told the Daily Record.

"The sooner Shaun settled down the better it was for all concerned and he is focused on winning his place back next season, which I am sure he will.

"He still has three years to go and there will be no problems whatsoever with Shaun and Villa.

"At this moment in time it is status quo, nothing has changed. When I tell you it is the truth, I promise it is the truth."

Sunderland are also ready to test Villa's resolve with a rumoured bid for Maloney expected to materialise.

"It is that time of year when Shaun is linked with clubs and this is going to happen in every transfer window, added Halliwell.

"Other people keep telling me what is going on but I can tell you he isn't going anywhere.

"We have no contact from anyone in Scotland."

TeamTalk / Eurosport