Yannick Bolasie set for first Aston Villa start against Bolton

Aston Villa winger Yannick Bolasie is pushing for his first start in Friday’s visit of Bolton.

The on-loan Everton forward has made eight substitute appearances since his summer move but head coach Dean Smith was impressed with the player’s 30-minute cameo against QPR last week and in a behind-closed-doors match on Tuesday.

Iceland international Birkir Bjarnason misses out with a groin injury, but fellow midfielder Albert Adomah has trained all week after overcoming a knee issue and is in contention.

Midfielder Keinan Davis is edging closer to fitness after a groin problem.

Bolton midfielder Jason Lowe returns to the side after serving a one-match suspension in the 1-0 loss aginst Hull.

Gary O’Neil remains doubtful having missed the last two matches with a calf injury.

Stephen Ireland (general fitness) and forward Sammy Ameobi (ankle) trained with the squad this week, but are unlikely to make the squad.

Manager Phil Parkinson is considering changes after just two goals in eight matches.