Aston Villa midfielder Birkir Bjarnason is back in full training after he required a groin operation that kept him out for the past six games.

The Icelandic international last featured for Villa as they fell to a 1-0 defeat to QPR, the last time Dean Smith's men failed to pick up a point.

However, the Express & Star have revealed that Bjarnason is back out in training and he will now be pushing to be involved as the hectic festive period approaches.

Villa take on Stoke City this weekend, which is the first of five by New Years' Day.

Despite Villa's remarkable form without Bjarnason, his inclusion in the squad will be a big boost for the manager as the 30-year-old had impressed prior to his injury.

Whilst he was on the fringes under Steve Bruce, it seemed that Bjarnason was going to be used more frequently by Smith as he looked to transform the style of play in the Villa side.

Although, it remains to be seen whether he can force his way back into the XI with Conor Hourihane performing very well alongside the outstanding John McGinn in recent weeks.

The Verdict

This is good news for Villa, especially with the run of games they have coming up.

Smith will have to manage his squad carefully over this period so he will want everyone fit and available.

Bjarnason has shown in the past he can have a lot to offer at this level and he will be another good option for the team in the midfield if used.

Thoughts, Villa fans? Let us know in the comments below.