Aston Villa defender Curtis Davies is expecting a big test against Sunderland this weekend.

Davies has warned Villa's back four to be on their guard against the Sunderland strike force of Kenwyne Jones and Djibril Cisse who have hit form in recent games.

He said: "We have to be very aware of Jones and Cisse because they are building up a really good understanding now.

"Jones was injured for a while and he was a big miss but he's back now and making a really good impression.

"It will be different from the clash at Villa Park when Cisse played up front by himself. The pair will be a real threat on Saturday."

Davies believes the appointment of Ricky Sbragia in place of Roy Keane as the Black Cats boss has lifted the Sunderland players.

He said: "It's never easy going up to the north-east, whether it is Sunderland, Newcastle or Middlesbrough. They have passionate fans and they are all tough teams.

"Ricky Sbragia has come in at Sunderland and it's given the lads a lift. He has obviously taken a different approach and it's working. Let's hope we put a spanner in the works when we play them."