Robert Pires is eyeing an Aston Villa debut against Blackburn Rovers.

Former Arsenal star Pires, 37, says he is edging closer to making a move to the Midlands and should complete a medical in 48 hours.

He has not played since leaving La Liga side Villarreal in the summer but has been training with Arsenal and is confident he could do himself justice.

Pires said: "It's no problem for me to play on Sunday. I've been training with Arsenal for two months and I'm happy and in good form.

"I just have to see Aston Villa's medical staff at the end of the week and, if I've signed, I hope to be part of the trip to Blackburn Rovers.

"No deal is done yet, nothing's been signed but the talks with Gerard Houllier are going well.

"I just have to convince the team doctor - and, hopefully, I'll sign for Aston Villa before the end of the week."