By Dan Harrison at Villa Park

Karim El Ahmadi has been recalled to the Villa starting line-up for this evening's clash against Arsenal.

El Ahmadi replaces Stephen Ireland in midfield as Paul Lambert makes one change from last weekend's defeat at Manchester City.

Enda Stevens keeps his place at left-back despite Eric Lichaj's return from injury.

The Gunners have made three changes from their midweek Champions League clash against Montpellier.

Carl Jenkinson, Kieran Gibbs and Aaron Ramsey come in to the line-up with Bacary Sagna, Thomas Vermaelen and Jack Wilshere missing out.

VILLA: Guzan, Lowton, Vlaar, Clark, Stevens, El Ahmadi, Westwood, Bannan, Weimann, Agbonlahor, Benteke. Subs: Given, Ireland, Albrighton, Holman, Delph, Bowery, Lichaj.

ARSENAL: Szczesny, Jenkinson, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Gibbs, Arteta, Ramsey, Cazorla, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Podolski, Giroud. Subs: Sagna, Vermaelen, Wilshere, Coquelin, Arshavin, Mannone, Gervinho.