Steve Bruce weighing up using Gabby Agbonlahor for Aston Villa again

The 30-year-old was a surprise selection on the bench for last Sunday's game at Blues and made his first appearance since March as a late substitute in the 1-1 derby draw.

Agbonlahor has been placed on a six-week fitness programme by Bruce, who admitted he must now decide whether the forward is in good enough shape to again be involved.

"The only thing you have to weigh up is whether he's physically ready? If he's not then he'll pick up an injury," explained Bruce.

"People have used him when they've had to and he hasn't got the conditioning in his legs to handle playing.

"I know that sound ridiculous but that's why he's broken down and nicked a thigh or nicked a groin. We have to get some base levels into him. He's worked extremely hard.

"The big thing is, do I include him tomorrow or do I put the physical work into him, which will benefit him in three or four weeks time?"

Agbonlahor's return to the fold has met with a mixed reaction from supporters, many of whom have struggled to forgive the player for his off-field antics during last season when the club were relegated from the Premier League.

Villa's longest-serving player, Birmingham-born Agbonlahor was twice suspended by the club and resigned the captaincy in disgrace after being photographed out partying on the night their demotion was confirmed.

Yet Bruce insisted the striker, who did not feature under previous boss Roberto Di Matteo, had only been a positive influence since his arrival.

"He's done nothing but galvanise the squad since I walked through the door," said Bruce.

"I'm not interested in the past, that's gone. Basically I've said to him it's up to you Gabby. I wouldn't say last-chance saloon but to be fair to him he's done everything he's been asked of so far.

"In fact, so much so, that I thought he had such a big influence in the dressing room that he deserved a place on the bench last week.

"I thought we were better when he was on the pitch. He gave everybody a lift.

"He's a very good player, an Aston Villa fan, who's played in the top league all his life and scored goals.

"If I can get him right, he could be the little bonus as a manager, that you're always looking for because he's a quality player.

"To play football at this level, or any level, you have to be in a physical condition to last otherwise you break down and you get injured.

"It's a crucial two weeks for him and us."

Villa have been handed a boost with the news winger Albert Adomah has recovered from injury in time for Saturday's game.