With the FA Cup fourth round dominating the fixture list there is just one Premier League game this weekend, giving both Aston Villa and Blackburn the chance to capitalise on their rivals' inactivity.

A win for Martin O'Neill's side at Villa Park would see the hosts move into a Champions League spot, while Mark Hughes's Blackburn can draw level on points with their opponents, Manchester City and Liverpool with victory in the Midlands.

Goalkeeper Scott Carson (pictured) is set to return to the Villa side after having sat out on Monday's draw with his parent club Liverpool through ineligibility but skipper Gareth Barry remains doubtful with a pelvic injury. Craig Gardner is waiting for the nod to replace the England international.

O'Neill will make a late decision on whether to play Olof Mellberg, who has been the subject of interest from Italian giants Juventus, and will only pick the Swede if he is in the right state of mind to play.

For Blackburn, Ryan Nelsen has been told to rest his problematic hamstring, meaning Georgian stopper Zurab Khizanishvili - fresh from signing a new deal at Ewood Park during the week - is likely to step in to replace Rovers' skipper.

Striker Jason Roberts expects to retain his place after starting in the draw against Middlesbrough last weekend, but Tugay is doubtful with a groin strain and Aaron Mokoena is away on international duty at the African Cup of Nations.

Follow LIVE text commentary on the game right here on eurosport.yahoo.com from 15:00 on Saturday!

Eurosport