Darren Bent has missed out on a place in the Aston Villa starting lineup for this evening's League Cup semi-final against Bradford City.

Reports had suggested that the England international was in line for a starting role, but Christian Benteke has been given the nod instead.

Elsewhere, Shay Given has replaced Brad Guzan in goal, while Charles N'Zogbia has kept his role on the right side of midfield.

Meanwhile, the visiting Bantams are unchanged from the opening leg, which means that Stephen Darby has been passed fit.

The League Two side will be captained by former Manchester United midfielder Ritchie Jones.

Villa: Given; Vlaar, Clark, Bennett, Lowton; Ireland, Delph, N'Zogbia, Agbonlahor, Bannan; Benteke

Bradford: Duke; McHugh, Darby, McArdle, Good; Atkinson, Doyle, Hines, Jones; Wells, Hanson