Aston Villa duo Shay Given and Kieran Richardson back in training ahead of Arsenal cup final

Tim Sherwood has confirmed that Aston Villa duo Shay Given and Kieran Richardson have returned to training ahead of the FA Cup final clash with Arsenal, with Jores Okore and Aly Cissokho also back in contention.

Experienced goalkeeper Given recently ousted American Brad Guzan as first-choice at Villa Park yet was replaced by Jed Steer for the 1-0 defeat to relegated Burnley last weekend due to a groin injury.

Richardson has been absent from the match day squad since 9 May due to a calf issue, meanwhile, while Okore continues to be troubled by a long-standing knee problem.

Former Liverpool loanee Cissokho has played just once since the sacking of Paul Lambert because of injury.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the final, Sherwood confirmed that all four could return to action as Villa, who last won the FA Cup in 1957, attempt to prevent Arsenal from retaining the famous old trophy for the second time in their history.

"Shay trained today so we're hopeful he'll be alright. But the nature of this club is you can't hold your breath," he said.

"We're training tomorrow so we're likely to lose two or three. I've not yet made my decision on the keeper. Come back tomorrow and I'll tell you then. Kieran trained today. Cissokho is fit. Okore trained for the first time today. If everyone's fit, we could play the same team as the semi-finals."

Arsenal will be without Danny Welbeck as the England striker continues to recover from a knee problem that has seen him sidelined for the last five matches.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Mathieu Debuchy are available for selection, however, and captain Mikel Arteta could also feature for Arsene Wenger's side for the first time in seven months.

The Spaniard suffered a calf injury during a Champions League tie against Borussia Dortmund in November and underwent surgery to remove a bony spur from his left ankle in January.

Arteta is out of contract at the Emirates Stadium this summer and it remains unclear at this stage if the Gunners intend to offer him the opportunity to sign an extension akin to the one handed to fellow midfielder Tomas Rosicky last week.

If they do not, then a return to Real Sociedad could be a possibility with previous reports having suggested that former Everton boss David Moyes is keen for a reunion with the 33-year-old at Anoeta.