Aston Villa vs Manchester City preview: Top flight strugglers look to recover dismal season in cup

A look ahead to the fourth-round Emirates FA Cup fixture at Villa Park

Aston Villa forward Gabriel Agbonlahor (Getty Images)

It’s a big game for…

Gabriel Agbonlahor: The England international has only played one minute under new boss Remi Garde, but looks to be back in the squad after shaking off a back injury. He has a lot to prove to make his way back into the first team.

Best stat…

5: Despite an awful start to the season and being rock bottom of the Premier League, The Villains are undefeated in their last five matches.

Remember when…

Current Aston Villa captain Micah Richards, then 17, scored an injury time equaliser in the FA Cup fifth round in 2006.

Player to watch…

Fabian Delph: The former Villa player returns to Villa Park once again to a likely hostile reception. The England player has made his way into the starting 11 in recent weeks and will be motivated to put in a decent shift.

Past three-meetings…

Aston Villa 0 Man City 0
Premier League, November 2015

Man City 3 (Aguero, Kolarov, Fernandinho) Aston Villa 2 (Cleverly, Sanchez)
Premier League, April 2015

Aston Villa 0 Man City 2 (Toure, Aguero)
Premier League, October 2014

Form guide…

Aston Villa: LDWDWD

Man City: LWDWDW

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: 3.00pm

TV: Highlights at 10:30pm on BBC 1