Aston Villa midfielder Fabian Delph has revealed that he feels "fitter and stronger than ever" after missing the team's last two games through illness.

The 24-year-old could return to the starting lineup for Villa's trip to Southampton in the Premier League tonight.

"I feel fitter and stronger than ever," Delph told the club's official website. "That probably has something to do with me starting to put some performances together.

"I didn't stop at the end of last season. I had maybe a week off but then I was back in the gym, working hard and putting in some good shifts.

"When pre-season came around I felt really strong. I've had a run of games from January, which is something I hadn't really had since I came here."

Villa head to St Mary's Stadium in 11th place in the Premier League table.