Agbonlahor winning fitness race

Aston Villa’s leading scorer Gabriel Agbonlahor is winning his battle to be fit for Saturday’s Barclays Premier League clash at Manchester City.

Agbonlahor has been suffering with a back problem in the early weeks of the season and was substituted after a stellar performance in the 2-0 win over Wigan a fortnight ago.

But the 25-year-old came through training this week with no problems to report and is set to face Roberto Mancini’s side as he looks to add to his four goals in seven league games.

Villa manager Alex McLeish said: “Gabby has trained. We are very pleased with the way he has trained. Today was the most intense session for him.

“We put him through it a wee bit and he came through with flying colours.

“We expect him, barring a nightmare in training tomorrow, to be okay for the game at City.

“He has done really well for us this season and I believe he can get even better.”

Midfielders Stephen Ireland (foot) and Barry Bannan (Achilles) and defender James Collins (foot) are also expected to be available, although striker Nathan Delfouneso (hamstring) and on-loan Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas (Achilles) are out.