Villa skipper Chester doubtful for derby clash with Birmingham

Captain James Chester is a major doubt for Aston Villa’s derby clash with Birmingham as he battles a knee injury.

The defender pulled out of Wales’ squad in the international break and will be given every chance to prove his fitness.

Neil Taylor has returned to training and should fit for Sunday but Birkir Bjarnason is still struggling with a groin problem.

Influential midfielder John McGinn is battling a calf problem and remains a doubt.

Birmingham boss Garry Monk hopes to have a near fully fit squad for the game at Villa Park.

Jacques Maghoma has resumed training ahead of the second city derby.

The Congo international has not played since injuring his ankle in Blues’ 2-1 win over Reading four weeks ago.

Jota (hip) is a doubt but he should be available while long-term injury victims David Davis (ankle) and Isaac Vassell (knee) continue their recoveries but are definitely out.