Preview: Aston Villa vs. Tottenham Hotspur

Aston Villa take on London opposition for the second time in three days when they welcome Tottenham Hotspur to the West Midlands on Boxing Day.

An 8-0 hammering at Stamford Bridge last weekend ended a five-match unbeaten run that had taken Paul Lambert's side out of the bottom three.

Darren Bent will definitely miss the clash with his former club as he continues to nurse a hamstring strain, but there is some positive news on the injury front for the hosts.

Captain Ron Vlaar is in contention to feature following a calf concern, while attacking duo Gabriel Agbonlahor and Charles N'Zogbia may also return from the sidelines.

Andre Villas-Boas may use some of his fringe players in an attempt to keep his squad fresh throughout the festive period.

After two brief substitute cameos, Scott Parker could start for the first time this season in a midfield that may also include Gylfi Sigurdsson.

Clint Dempsey missed the draw with Stoke City with a groin injury and is also a doubt for the Villa Park meeting, but Benoit Assou-Ekotto could make the Spurs squad after recovering from a knee injury.

Recent form

Villa: LWDDWD

Spurs: DWLWWW

Possible starting lineups:

Villa: Guzan; Lowton, Vlaar, Baker, Clark; Holman, Westwood, Bannan, El Ahmadi; Weimann, Benteke

Spurs: Lloris; Walker, Gallas, Caulker, Vertonghen; Parker, Dembele, Sigurdsson, Bale; Adebayor, Defoe

Sports Mole says: 1-2