Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has doubts over midfielder Samir Nasri heading into Saturday’s London derby clash with Fulham. (kick-off 15.00 GMT)
Nasri suffered a knee injury during the midweek Carling Cup victory over Wigan Athletic, but Wenger is hopeful that the Frenchman could still face the Cottagers.
Robin Van Persie may have to settle for a place on the bench once more as he continues his return from injury, but Wenger remains without the services of Cesc Fabregas (hamstring), Abou Diaby (ankle) and Thomas Vermaelen.
Fulham striker Andrew Johnson is expected to return from a hamstring strain, but an ankle injury will sideline defender Carlos Salcido.
Veteran Mark Schwarzer, who ended speculation about his future by signing a new contract this week, will start in goal
Last Premier League games:
Aston Villa 2 ARSENAL 4: Fabianski, Sagna, Squillaci, Koscielny, Clichy, Rosicky (Djourou 90), Song, Wilshere, Nasri (Gibbs 85), Chamakh, Arshavin (Denilson 85). Not used: Szczesny, Van Persie, Walcott, Bendtner.
FULHAM 1 Birmingham 1: Schwarzer, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Salcido (Pantsil 24), Davies (E Johnson 73), Murphy, Etuhu, Dempsey, Gera, Kamara. Not used: Stockdale, Kelly, Duff, Dikgacoi, Greening.