Villa's Kieran Richardson expects Toffees test
Winger Kieran Richardson has warned his Villa team-mates to ignore Everton's poor start to the season ahead of their Premier League clash at Goodison Park.
After an impressive fifth-place finish last season, their first under former Wigan boss Roberto Martinez, the Toffees had high hopes of similar achievement this time around.
But seven games in they are languishing just outside the relegation places with just one League win to their credit.
Villa's own impressive start stalled somewhat before the international break as they lost three on the bounce to champions Manchester City and two more of last season's top four, Arsenal and Chelsea.
Former Baggies favourite Richardson is well aware that's the sort of level Everton were operating at last season, though, and is expecting a tough examination of Villa's credentials tomorrow.
"It will be a very hard game. Everton are a top side," he said. "They've had a bit of a slow start but I watched them against Manchester United.
"They lost 2-1 but they were very, very strong, they should have got something out of that game.
"They're at home, they're strong at home and they need the points to crack on with their season, but we're going into the game after three losses and we need the points, too."
Villa last travelled to Merseyside just over a month ago, where they ran out 1-0 winners at neighbours Liverpool, and Richardson believes Paul Lambert's men can repeat the feat.
He added: "We're going there to try and get the win. We've got a great squad and players that will cause problems so we're confident."
Ron Vlaar is set to return at the heart of the Villa defence after recovering from a recurrence of his consistent calf problem.
Striker Christian Benteke could start after a cameo off the bench last time out against City.
The skipper's availability is timely with Philippe Senderos a big doubt after picking up a knock on duty with Switzerland.
Fabian Delph is also set to miss out after injuring his shoulder in training.
