Premier League preview: Aston Villa v Everton

Aston Villa host Everton in a vital clash between two English Premier League sides in the bottom half of the table.

Both sides have struggled for consistency this season, with managers Alex McLeish and David Moyes under pressure as a result.

Moyes’ Everton suffered a 2-0 loss at Tottenham on Wednesday after also losing to Bolton, and travel to Villa Park on Saturday in desperate search of three points.

While Villa have been inconsistent at home, 11th-placed Everton have a strong away record – four wins in 10 outings – they will be keen to build on.

Everton, whose top-scorers this campaign – Leighton Baines, Leon Osman and Apostolos Vellios – have netted just three times, are believed to be eyeing a striker in the January transfer window.

But with the Merseyside club plagued by financial problems, Moyes may have to settle with his current squad to see out the season.

Dutchman Royston Drenthe, on loan from Real Madrid, has been one of few shining lights, providing five assists.

Villa, who are 13th, have only won one of their last five league outings, but have the chance to create some momentum with the clash against Everton followed by meetings with Wolves and Queens Park Rangers.

McLeish is keen to retain his leading goalscorer Darren Bent (six goals), who has been ably supported by Gabriel Agbonlahor (five assists).

The arrival of Robbie Keane on loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy will also boost their attack, with the former Tottenham forward set for a debut against Everton.

Goalkeeper Shay Given is closing in on a return from injury, but it remains to be seen whether he will regain his spot with American shot-stopper Brad Guzan impressive as his replacement.

Emile Heskey and Carlos Cuellar are both likely to miss, while Chris Herd remains a few weeks away.

Everton have been hampered by injuries all campaign, with Seamus Coleman the latest to join a growing list that includes Osman, Phil Jagielka, Tony Hibbert and Jack Rodwell.

Of the last six meetings between the teams, five have ended in draws, but both teams will be desperate for a win on Saturday.