Radamel Falcao has returned to the Manchester United starting lineup for the first time since early October for today's trip to Aston Villa.

The Colombian partners Robin van Persie in attack, while Wayne Rooney continues in central midfield.

Darren Fletcher has also been handed a starting berth as he replaces Marouane Fellaini, but Angel di Maria is only fit enough for a place on the bench after recovering from a hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, Paul Lambert has made four changes from last weekend's 1-0 defeat to local rivals West Bromwich Albion.

Ron Vlaar returns in defence to captain the side, alongside Matthew Lowton. Further forward, Fabian Delph is restored next to Carlos Sanchez in midfield, while Andreas Weimann replaces Charles N'Zogbia.

Aston Villa: Guzan, Lowton, Vlaar, Okore, Clark, Cissokho, Sanchez, Delph, Weimann, Agbonlahor, Benteke
Subs: Given, Bacuna, Herd, N'Zogbia, Robinson, Grealish, Calder

Man Utd: De Gea, Jones, Carrick, Evans, Valencia, Fletcher, Mata, Rooney, Young, Van Persie, Falcao
Subs: Lindegaard, Blackett, McNair, Rafael, Di Maria, Januzaj, Wilson

Follow all the action from Villa Park with Sports Mole's live text commentary.