The Cottagers are involved in a four-way tussle for the final Europa League spot after enjoying a splendid season under manager Roy Hodgson.

They slipped back to ninth following a 3-1 defeat to Chelsea last weekend and will be determined to pick up three points against Villa, with tough games still to come against relegation-threatened Newcastle and FA Cup finalists Everton.

Hodgson has been consistent with selection all season but he was forced to leave out the injured Andy Johnson and Simon Davies at Stamford Bridge.

Erik Nevland, who replaced Johnson in the starting line-up, also had to be substituted after picking up a knock but he has recovered and is available.

However, Hodgson will have to assess the fitness of Johnson (knee), Bobby Zamora (hip) and Paul Konchesky (knee) ahead of kick-off.