Vassell, Johnsen back for Villa

Darius Vassell and Ronny Johnsen are set to return for Aston Villa in Saturday’s Premiership clash at Southampton.

Striker Vassell and central defender Johnsen have recovered from hamstring and groin injuries respectively.

Johnsen’s fitness is timely as skipper and centre-back partner Olof Mellberg is doubtful with flu.

Nolberto Solano is suspended after his sending-off against Middlesbrough but Lee Hendrie is a ready-made replacement on the right side of midfield.

Team (from): Sorensen, De la Cruz, Mellberg, Johnsen, Ridgewell, Samuel, Hendrie, McCann, Hitzlsperger, Whittingham, Barry, Angel, Vassell, Crouch, Postma, Dublin, Allback.