Jack Grealish in contention for return against Palace

Jack Grealish could be set for a return to the Villa lineup against Crystal Palace, whilst Carles Gil, Jose Angel Crespo and Jores Okore will likely miss out.

According to an update on Aston Villa's official website, Jack Grealish has sufficiently recovered from his hamstring injury to be in contention for Saturday's away clash at Crystal Palace. Grealish, who picked up his knock during pre-season, missed the opening two fixtures but returned to Under 21 action last night, scoring the winning goal as Villa beat Derby County.

Carles Gil also featured in the U21 fixture, but was replaced on 71 minutes after picking up another knock. He, like Grealish picked up his injury in pre-season, against Swindon and although the Crystal Palace fixture may be too soon for the Spaniard, next week's Capital One Cup game against Notts County could be the perfect opportunity to ease him back into senior action.

Imminent returns look less likely for defensive duo Jores Okore and Jose Angel Crespo, with Okore in particular seemingly a few weeks away from a return.

Speaking to AVTV, Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood said:

"The Derby match was a good workout for the boys.

"They need games - the lads who haven't been playing. It was a good fitness exercise first and foremost.

"I thought Jack was very good. He played to the last minute. He looked fit enough to maybe be up for selection this weekend.

"Carles came off with a tight groin which is an indication the lack of training he has actually done. He will get fitter.

"Jores is not fit yet. But he is out there running.

"Jose is still not fit. He picked up a groin problem a few minutes into the Nottingham Forest game.

"It is disappointing for him - and the rest of us. But he won't be too far away.

"Overall, we're quite healthy."

Keep following us here at 7500 to Holte for all the latest news surrounding the boys in Claret and Blue as we build up to this weekend's clash against Crystal Palace!