Hutton a doubt for Villa

Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton is struggling to be fit for Saturday’s trip to Sunderland because of the facial injury suffered during the home setback against West Brom.

Hutton required seven stitches after an a clash with team-mate Charles N’Zogbia and had to be substituted before half-time of the 2-1 defeat.

The wound is immediately above Hutton’s eye and affecting his vision which means he is a doubt for the clash with the Black Cats.

Villa assistant manager Peter Grant said: “His eye was closing on Saturday and it is still like that.

“He is touch and go for the weekend because of where the cut is. It means he has to be careful with heading. If he gets a knock it could just open up.”