Central defender Collins missed the 5-1 demolition of Bolton Wanderers at Villa Park a fortnight ago with a groin injury and Heskey was also sidelined after suffering a back spasm in the previous game at West Ham United.
Villa manager Martin O'Neill said: "James Collins is going strongly and Emile, at this minute, has got a good chance. I think that the medical side at the club are particularly pleased with their progress. I think they are on course." Heskey has yet to score in nine appearances this season and faces competition for his place from England Under-19 striker Nathan Delfouneso, who recently signed a two-year extension to his current contract.
utmost potential
O'Neill believes the promising young frontman is now ready to challenge for a Barclays Premier League spot.Delfouneso first made an impression last season when he scored twice in the UEFA Cup for Villa.
O'Neill said: "I have known now Nathan for some quite considerable time. He got on in the game on Saturday week (against Bolton) and he's got the utmost potential.
"I think he has got a real proper future in the game. He has got stronger too as time has gone on and he is really knocking on the door of the Premier League for us."
Delfouneso played a key role in helping Aston Villa to win the Barclays Premier Reserve League play-off last season.
Villa beat northern section winners Sunderland 3-1 at Villa Park to clinch the trophy with Delfouneso scoring the opening goal.
He has made two substitute appearances in the Barclays Premier League this season.
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