By Dan Harrison

Brett Holman has vowed to "give it everything" against Werder Bremen this evening as he seeks to nail down a starting spot for the Barclays Premier League opener against West Ham.

Villa are set to play their final pre-season friendly before the top-flight campaign gets underway at Upton Park next Saturday.

Holman is determined to shine in tonight's clash at the Weserstadion [ko 5pm UK time] as he bids to secure a regular spot in Paul Lambert's first XI.

The Australian international has made an encouraging start to his claret and blue career with goals in friendlies against Burton Albion and Peterborough United.

"I don't know if it's the main dress rehearsal for us," said Holman.

"Obviously it's the last friendly game for us. I think the manager will probably still want to try things out, which formations he actually wants to play against West Ham.

"Whether he's umming and aahing or doubting about which players are going to play there or there or wherever, that's obviously up to him.

"We'll see what happens, but it's definitely up to us to make up his mind and this game is a good chance for us to try to do that. It's only us as players that can do that, there's no other way.

"As long as I'm performing and giving it everything and pushing for the starting XI spot then that's all I can do."

Watch tonight's game LIVE on AVTV - click here.