Preview: Aston Villa vs. Southampton

Aston Villa will still be without striker Christian Benteke when they host Southampton at Villa Park on Monday evening.

The Belgian will sit out the second of a three-game ban after being sent off against Tottenham Hotspur at the beginning of the month.

Manager Paul Lambert will also be without Nathan Baker and Philippe Senderos, both of whom are expected to be missing until the New Year with knee and calf injuries.

Villa broke their scoring duck against Spurs at the start of November, but the West Midlands outfit remain without a league win since beating Liverpool on September 13.

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman will be hoping that his team can continue their momentum after picking up five successive wins before the international break.

The Saints have proven to be a revelation under the Dutchman's guidance and three more points on Monday will maintain their breathing space in second position in the standings.

Former Villa midfielder Steven Davis could miss the game at his former club after suffering with a hamstring problem.

Aston Villa:

Recent form: LLLLLD

Possible starting lineup: Guzan; Lowton, Vlaar, Clark, Cissokho; Sanchez, Westwood, Cleverley, Weimann, N'Zogbia; Agbonlahor

Southampton:

Form in Premier League: WLWWWW Form in all competitions: LWWWWW

Possible starting lineup: Forster, Clyne, Fonte, Alderweireld, Bertrand, Wanyama, Schneiderlin, Cork, Tadic, Mane, Pelle

Sports Mole says: 1-2