Martin O'Neill sees tomorrow's Barclays Premier League clash with Liverpool as a barometer of Villa's progress in recent seasons.

And the Villa boss is looking for a repeat of the impressive performance that saw off Manchester City at Villa Park two weeks ago.

O'Neill, who is looking for a second League win of the season, told AVTV Online: "I'm really looking forward to tomorrow. It's a massive game for us.

"Our last performance at Villa Park in the Premier League was outstanding and if we could get back to that type of form, we're capable of winning the game.

"This is a good benchmark for Aston Villa football club. We have been striving in the last two seasons to try and get up there. It might take a little bit longer but these teams are the yardstick for us."

O'Neill hopes Nicky Shorey will be available after missing the UEFA Cup draw against Icelandic side FH Hafnarfjordur with a knee injury.

Steve Sidwell is still unavailable but recent signing Carlos Cuéllar could be involved for the first time after overcoming a calf injury.

Tune into AVTV Online for MON's full pre-match press conference.