Crouch back to take on Villa

Glenn Whelan (calf) is again doubtful but his fellow midfielder, Matthew Etherington, could return after a slight strain and defender Ryan Shawcross is back from suspension.

Aston Villa are optimistic that joint top-scorer Darren Bent will be available, having returned to training after being ruled out of the previous two games with a thigh injury.

Fellow striker Emile Heskey (Achilles) and central defender James Collins (knee) are also expected to be in contention after missing the midweek home defeat by Arsenal.

However, full-back Alan Hutton will be suspended following his sending-off against the Gunners.