Aston Villa winger Stewart Downing is delighted to be fit and available for manager Martin O'Neill.

He is now desperate to make his home debut in the highly anticipated clash with Tottenham this weekend.

Downing told AVTV: "I am enjoying it. It's great to be back involved and playing football again.

"It beats slogging away in the gym. The injury was obviously frustrating but I think what helped me were the surroundings of a new club, new people - it's been good.

"The rehab has been great and the lads have been super with me. It was strange joining a club when you're injured but I am ready to play now. I feel fit and hopefully I can be involved again at the weekend.

"I have had to be patient. I couldn't have been any more patient in fact. With injuries, it's vital you don't rush them because you could easily get a setback, which is the last thing you need.

"But everything has gone well and the more I play now the better. I am feeling good and hopefully I can be involved again against Tottenham.

"I am excited about this weekend but then again everyone is. How can you not be when two good teams go head to head? We are both looking for that top four spot. They are playing well and we're doing well too.

"But it's a one-off game and it's about who wants it most on the day. We have done well at home and I'm sure our lads are positive and relishing the challenge. I am confident we can get a result."