HERMANN Hreidarsson is available for the trip to the Midlands after returning from suspension.

However, Charlton are still without Bryan Hughes (groin) and Matt Holland (rib) and while Andy Reid, Omar Pouso, Jonathan Fortune are Souleymane Diawara are closing in on full fitness they are unlikely to feature.

Hreidarsson's return, probably to left-back, may signal Luke Young's return to the right-hand side.

Jonathan Fortune looks set to continue, despite his broken toe, alongside Tala El Karkouri.

Jimmy-Floy Hasselbaink and Scott Carson, rested for the Carling Cup match, are likely to return.

Charlton's last visit to Aston Villa ended in a 1-0 defeat and they have only won at Villa Park once in the last seven attempts.

Both teams have a new manager at the helm but while each progressed in the Carling Cup - Charlton beating Carlisle and Villa overcoming Scunthorpe - Addicks' Dowie is struggling whereas Villa are rejuvenated and unbeaten under Martin O'Neill.

A Charlton win could lift them to the middle of the table while three points for Villa will keep them in touch with the top three.