Davis seeks festive fillip

Fresh from signing a contract extension, Davis already has his sights firmly set on a top-five place. "We have got a few tough games but if we can pick up points up over Christmas, we will be in a good position going into the New Year," the Northern Ireland midfielder said.

"Two years ago we went from the bottom three just before Christmas and came joint fifth. The lads went on a great run. We are just trying to emulate that. We've had a few good results in the league over the last month apart from the Manchester United game and we want to continue that."

The United game ended in a 2-0 defeat after goals from Wayne Rooney and Ruud Van Nistelrooy. The closest Villa came to scoring was a Milan Baros shot which rattled the post but with Juan Pablo Angel likely to start alongside him, he could enjoy a more productive afternoon at Villa Park. Everton were thumped 4-0 in their weekend clash against highflying Bolton, the latest blow in a very poor season for the Merseyside club. Nigel Martyn looks set to come back from injury in the place of Richard Wright, but with Tim Cahill, Marcus Bent and James Beattie all doubtful, their attack lacks any real threat.
 

Then again, with Liam Ridgewell and Aaron Hughes at the heart of Villa's defence, the Everton forwards will hardly be quivering.