Aston Villa vs Tottenham team news: Harry Kane dropped again after impressive cup form

Harry Kane has once again been left out of the Tottenham Hotspur line up against Aston Villa - despite scoring eight goals in cup competitions.

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is aware that some fans would like to see him given a chance in the Premier League but is reluctant to bow to pressure.

He said: "He is English, he is young and from the Tottenham academy so it is normal (to be under pressure)."

Emmanuel Adebayor and Roberto Soldado are once again preferred in attack while Christian Eriksen starts also.

Aston Villa, who have lost their last five top flight matches, give starting spots to Tom Cleverley and Charles N’Zogbia while Gabby Agbonlahor is on the bench.

Aston Villa: Guzan, Lowton, Vlaar (c), Baker, Cissokho, Westwood, Cleverley, Sanchez, Weimann, N’Zogbia, Benteke.

Subs: Given, Cole, Bent, Richardson, Clark, Grealish, Agbonlahor.

Tottenham: Lloris, Naughton, Kaboul (c), Vertonghen, Rose; Capoue, Chadli, Eriksen, Mason; Adebayor, Soldado.

Subs: Vorm, Fazio, Dembele, Stambouli, Lamela, Townsend, Kane