Preview: Aston Villa vs. Manchester United

Manchester United can consolidate their position at the top of the Premier League table on Saturday when they face Aston Villa at Villa Park.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side benefited from Chelsea and Manchester City both dropping points last weekend by beating Arsenal 2-1 at Old Trafford to head the standings.

However, they are up against a resurgent Villa side who have won their last two matches, including a 1-0 win at Sunderland.

Reports have suggested that Darren Bent could be fit for the hosts, while Nathan Baker may also shake off an ankle problem to make his return.

Chris Smalling is available again for United after recovering from a broken metatarsal and Phil Jones might feature among the substitutes following knee surgery.

Recent form:

Aston Villa: DLLDWW

Man Utd: WWWLWW

Possible lineups:

Aston Villa: Guzan; Vlaar, Clark, Bennett, Lowton; Ireland, Westwood, Bannan, Albrighton; Agbonlahor, Benteke

Man Utd: De Gea; Rafael, Evans, Ferdinand, Evra; Carrick, Cleverley, Fletcher; Rooney, Van Persie, Hernandez

Sports Mole says: 1-3