Cuellar may make Villa return

Aston Villa defender Carlos Cuellar could be available for the Barclays Premier League clash with Fulham at Villa Park after groin and thigh injuries.

The Spanish player has returned to training after missing the goalless draw with Manchester United but Villa boss Martin O’Neill will wait to see if there is any reaction before deciding whether to involve him.

Striker John Carew (hip) and full-back Luke Young (thigh) are also battling to be fit to face Roy Hodgson’s side.

Carew has netted seven goals this season but has started only two of Villa’s last eight matches.

Brad Friedel will surpass David James’ record of 166 consecutive Premier League appearances.

Villa (from): Friedel, Guzan, Luke Young, Davies, Laursen, Cuellar, Knight, Shorey, Reo-Coker, Petrov, Barry, Sidwell, Ashley Young, Milner, Agbonlahor, Carew, Harewood, Salifou, Delfouneso, Gardner, Osbourne.