Source: Team_Talk
Villa duo winning fitness battle
Central defender Collins missed the 5-1 demolition of Bolton at Villa Park a fortnight ago with a groin injury.[LNB]Heskey was also sidelined after suffering a back spasm in the previous game at West Ham.[LNB]But the pair are making good progress ahead of the meeting with Owen Coyle's newly promoted side.[LNB]Villa manager Martin O'Neill said: "James Collins is going strongly and Emile, at this minute, has got a good chance.[LNB]"I think that the medical side at the club are particularly pleased with their progress. I think they are on course."[LNB]O'Neill believes England Under-19 striker Nathan Delfouneso, who recently signed a two-year extension to his current contract, is now ready to challenge for a Premier League spot.[LNB]Delfouneso first made an impression last season when he scored twice in the UEFA Cup for Villa.[LNB]O'Neill said: "I have known now Nathan for some quite considerable time. He got on in the game on Saturday week (against Bolton) and he's got the utmost potential.[LNB]"I think he has got a real proper future in the game. He has got stronger too as time has gone on and he is really knocking on the door of the Premier League for us."[LNB][LNB] Aston Villa 5/4, Burnley 9/4, Draw 9/4
