Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard has confirmed that Leon Bailey is close to returning.

The club's expensive summer signing from Bayer Leverkusen has not featured since a muscle injury on December 1st.

Gerrard is not likely to rush Bailey back into starting games, but confirmed the winger will be available for selection.

The Villa boss said after his team's win over Everton: "Leon is not too far away and we are hoping to have him back in the next two weeks.

"The (winter) break will benefit Leon as he won't miss many more games.

"Hopefully in two weeks' time he is ready to train with the group."