Villa full-back Wilfred Bouma could face Manchester United on Sunday after playing 80 minutes in the reserves’ 2-1 defeat at Spurs.

His return would boost the Villa defence for the crunch match, giving manager Martin O’Neill the option of switching Luke Young to his preferred right-back role from the left.

The Old Trafford clash could also see the return of United’s full-back Gary Neville, who also came through a reserve match.

But Bouma’s joy at playing after his horrendous injury was dulled by only their second defeat of the season for Villa reserves.

Victory would have seen Kevin MacDonald’s team clinch the FA Premier Reserve League South title for the second season in a row, but penalties either side of half-time meant they slipped up against the only side who can still catch them.

Villa had looked good value for at least a point after bombarding the Spurs goal in the first-half.

Nathan Delfouneso had an effort ruled out for offside but the visitors eventually took the lead on 38 minutes, when Dominik Hofbauer slotted past goalkeeper Ben Alnwick to finish a move which started from Eric Lichaj’s long throw-in.

But three minutes later Spurs were level, Ryan Mason smashing a penalty into the roof of the net after Nathan Baker had fouled Takura Mtandari.

Tottenham’s winner, which arrived just before the hour mark, also came from the spot. Matthew Roome brought down Gilberto but  Villa goalkeeper Elliott Parish saved Jacques Mahogma’s spot-kick.

But the referee ordered a retake and Mahogma struck his second attempt down the middle, meaning Villa must now wait to clinch the league championship.