Aston Villa are the form side in the country right now, with Steve Bruce’s side looking a good bet to push on and secure a Premier League return later this season.

Bruce’s side have picked up six consecutive victories in the Sky Bet Championship, which has elevated them to third in the table, just a single point outside the top-two.

This weekend, Villa aren’t in action until Sunday, when they welcome Birmingham City to Villa Park for the Second City derby.

Like Villa, Birmingham are in good form heading into the fixture, having won four of their last six fixtures, to move them slightly away from relegation trouble.

As always, form goes out of the window ahead of a local derby, but Bruce will want to keep some consistency within his line-up, which has been key to Villa’s success recently.

Here at FLW, we take a look at the best XI Bruce could select to take on Birmingham, with it likely he will stick to his 4-1-4-1 formation…

Johnstone has been one of the Championship’s standout goalkeepers this season and he has to continue.

Switching back to right-back to replace Ahmed Elmohamady – the Scot has been a real consistent performer this season.

Proving to be one of the most consistent defenders in the Championship, he will take up his usual role.

The captain, who alongside Chester looks like he could play on for another couple of years.

Perhaps the man behind Villa’s success this season.

Returning to the XI to replace Elmohamady and bringing a balance back to Villa’s back-four.

What a lifeline he has given himself at Villa Park.

Bjarnason should continue to keep Glenn Whelan and Mile Jedinak out.

Snodgrass has been the driving force behind Villa’s recent run and Bruce will need another big performance from the winger.

Looking like a real talent again, which is pleasing to see for Villa’s supporters.

Grealish will want to make a big impression against the Blues.

A consistent performer in central midfield for Villa this season.

Hourihane has shown why Bruce made such an effort to sign him and should continue against Birmingham.

Brings the balance on the left that Snodgrass brings on the right.

Adomah has been impressive this season, and will be looking to be amongst the goals at Villa Park on Sunday.

There will be temptation to start Lewis Grabban, but Hogan deserves to retain his place.

The Irishman is in good form and could well be the difference on Sunday.