Team News: Paul Lambert forced into defensive changes

A host of injuries mean that Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert has only been able to name one recognised centre-back in his team for today's Premier League clash with former club Norwich City.

Captain Ron Vlaar is partnered by Matthew Lowton in the heart of Villa's backline, with Ciaran Clark, Nathan Baker and Richard Dunne all on the sidelines.

Darren Bent is on the substitutes' bench, while Christian Benteke spearheads the hosts' attack.

Norwich remain unchanged from the team that beat Arsenal last weekend.

Villa: Guzan, Lowton, Vlaar, Bennett, El Ahmadi, Delph, Herd, Albrighton, Holman, Agbonlahor, Benteke Subs: Given, Bent, Westwood, Lichaj, Bannan, Ireland, Weimann

Norwich: Ruddy, Martin, Johnson, Bassong, Turner, Holt, Pilkington, Hoolahan, E Bennett, Garrido, Tettey Subs: Rudd, Snodgrass, Howson, Jackson, Morison, Barnett, R Bennett