Aston Villa are “hopeful” that key man James Chester will be available for Sunday’s derby against Birmingham City, report the Express & Star.
The two bitter rivals go head-to-head in the Championship this weekend, with local bragging rights up for grabs.
Villa were dealt a blow when it was revealed Chester had picked up an injury for Wales in their 2-1 defeat to Denmark last Friday.
Despite fears that the 29-year-old would miss Sunday’s much-anticipated clash, the club are now positive that he will take to the field at Villa Park.
He has been checked over by Villa’s medical team and there appears to be optimism surrounding his involvement.
There are injury doubts surrounding Neil Taylor and John McGinn, though, both of whom could miss out.
Chester being available would be a huge boost to manager Dean Smith, who would struggle to make do without his influential captain.
The Welshman has been a regular since joining from West Brom in the summer of 2016, making 101 appearances for the Villains.
Villa and Birmingham go into the game level on 24 points, in 11th and 12th place, respectively.
Both are aiming to head towards the play-off positions, as the hectic festive schedule approaches.
