Under John Gregory's management, Villa have lost just a handful of league games in 1998.

Many commentators feel they were unlucky to have lost against Blackburn on Saturday following the controversial sending-off of Michael Oakes.

"That was only our second away defeat in 15 Premiership matches, which isn't bad. But with the standards we set ourselves, it is always difficult to accept when we fall below it," said Gregory. .

Villa lose midfielder Alan Thompson on a one-match suspension for clocking up five bookings this season.

Mark Draper is set to replace him. Paul Merson is still out due to injury.

Wednesday will again be without Paolo Di Canio, who is serving a two week club suspension after failing to return from compassionate leave.

Fellow Italian Benito Carbone is expected to return for this game in place of Richie Humphreys. Wenesday's other worry is veteran defender Des Walker's shoulder injury.

Liverpool v Newcastle

Ruud Gullit's struggling Newcastle visit Anfield, where Gerard Houillier might have have turned the corner with his Liverpool side.

Robbie Fowler: Injury worry

The Reds main concern is Robbie Fowler, who picked up a knee injury during the 3-1 win over Middlesbrough on Saturday.

If he is sidelined, the two players likely to replace him are either Karl-Heinz Riedle or Steve McManaman.

For Newcastle, Warren Barton is unlikely to figure after limping off early during the 3-0 home defeat to Leeds. Aaron Hughes is the likely replacement.

Nottingham Forest v Southampton

This game will decide which of the two clubs finish 1998 bottom of the Premiership.

The hosts will again be without Pierre van Hooijdonk through suspension.

But Marlon Harewood is available after his one-match ban.

Matthew Le Tissier: Unlikely to play

While Forest are hopeful flu victims Jon Olav Hjelde and Scot Gemmill will be able to play along with Steve Chettle and Chris Bart Williams.

The Saints are likely to travel without Matthew Le Tissier and Stuart Ripley, both of whom picked up injuries during the 2-0 defeat by Chelsea.

Leicester City v Blackburn

Both teams come to this game fresh from good wins.

Leicester City's victory at Sheffield Wednesday was not without cost, with Muzzy Izzet, Robert Ullathorne and Andy Impey all doubtful.

Blackburn manager Brian Kidd is resigned to losing Chris Sutton and Stephane Henchoz, whilst Nathan Blake and Darren Peacock are trying to shrug off flu.

Derby v Middlesbrough

Derby manager Jim Smith has picked Dean Sturridge despite the striker's decision to drop himself to the bench for the goaless draw at Everton.

He also has to contend with the absence of Rory Delap and Igor Stimac.

Boro are without the injured Gary Pallister. Curtis Fleming is the likely replacement.

Spurs v Everton

Nicky Barmby (left): Set to return

David Ginola is set to lead the Spurs attack.

The club may recall Stefan Iversen, who has recovered quicker than expected from a broken jaw.

Everton could bring back former England international Nicky Barmby.

Charlton v Arsenal

The Gunners make the short trip across London to Charlton without Nicholas Anelka, as well as long term casualties Tony Adams, David Seaman, Stephen Hughes and Fredrik Ljunberg.

Strugglers Charlton are without Clive Mendonca through a groin strain. Steve Jones is expected to keep his place.

West Ham v Coventry

The home side entertain Coventry without any full backs.

Both Julian Dicks and Marc Keller are long term absentees for the Hammers, with the latter having picked up his injury during the 1-0 defeat at Highbury.