Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has made three changes to the side that beat Montpellier in midweek for tonight's match against Aston Villa.

Kieran Gibbs returns in defence at the expense of Thomas Vermaelen, as the Gunners captain drops to the bench.

Carl Jenkinson also starts at the back in place of Bacary Sagna while Aaron Ramsey is recalled in favour of Jack Wilshere.

Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert has decided not to pick the fit-again Darren Bent, who has also not been named among the substitutes.

Karim El Ahmadi is picked in midfield ahead of Stephen Ireland in the only change from last week's defeat at Manchester City.

Aston Villa: Guzan, Lowton, Vlaar, Clark, Stevens, El Ahmadi, Westwood, Weimann, Bannan, Agbonlahor, Benteke

Arsenal: Szczesny, Jenkinson, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs, Arteta, Ramsey, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Cazorla, Podolski, Giroud