O'Leary considers Hitz recall

Thomas Hitzlsperger is pushing for a recall to the Aston Villa midfield for the trip to Old Trafford.

The German international has scored two goals in two reserve games since returning from a six-week absence caused by a thigh injury.

Hitzlsperger could become part of a five-man midfield as Villa manager David O’Leary has preferred a 4-5-1 formation against several of the leading Premiership sides this season.

That could mean a place on the bench for striker Carlton Cole who has failed to hit the target since August 28.

Squad (from): Sorensen, Delaney, Mellberg, Ridgewell, Samuel, Solano, Hendrie, Berson, Barry, Hitzlsperger, Cole, Angel, Postma, Whittingham, L Moore, Davis, De La Cruz.