Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood confirms that he will make a host of changes to his squad for the midweek Capital One Cup encounter against Notts County.

Following three gruelling weeks of action, it is no surprise to see Premier League managers taking the opportunity to rest their key players for the early stages of the league cup and at the same time, allow the fringe players a chance to earn some minutes on the pitch.

Sherwood has also admitted that he will be looking to rest a few of his first team regulars for the clash against Notts County but has insisted that the Capital One Cup is still valued by the club.

Sherwood told the Birmingham Mail: "We'll make some changes as I think these boys have gone at it for the last three games so the other lads need an opportunity to play.

"The cup is very, very important. It's an opportunity to win a trophy which is excellent. I think that's a realistic target for us so I don't see the competition as a distraction at all.

"This season is all about improving on the last one. That's a must. But it would be nice if we could go to Wembley a couple of times again too."