Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert is ready to hand Joe Cole a full debut tonight.
Cole is set to start against Capital One Cup opponents Leyton Orient.
"He is desperate to play and he's got a right good chance," said Lambert. "It is exciting because he has got so much to offer.
"He's only 32 and some guys don't even hit their prime until that age.
"I think he has still got the hunger to go and do as much as he can.
"And that's from a guy who has won everything in the game.
"He's a real top player, he can see a pass no problem at all. The key thing for us is to get him fit and keep him fit."
Lambert reckons his best position remains as an attacking midfielder supporting the strikers.
"I think (the hole) is his favourite place," he added. "I don't think he can play in the wide areas.
"His best role is in the centre of the pitch."
