David O'Leary is no more of a fan of international football than any other Premiership manager these days, given the schedules some of his players have to work to.

But the Aston Villa manager is almost pleased following the latest international break before tonight's match against West Ham United at Upton Park.

Having matches moved for Sky Sports might irritate fans but, when it gives O'Leary a two-day extension to get over a tiring week and bed in his new signings, he's all for it.

"For the first time, it's worked out for us great," he said. "Particularly for the two South Americans and the new ones we've got in. Usually, you don't get much of a chance to work with them when they've been here, there and everywhere with their countries but we've got the bonus of two extra days."

While Milan Baros will make only his second Villa start, O'Leary (who has Lee Hendrie available again after suspension) could have two more debutants on show tonight. Although Eirik Bakke remains sidelined with the back injury he had prior to his move from Leeds, Freddie Bouma is expected to slot straight in at left-back in place of Jlloyd Samuel. James Milner may come in on the right for Gareth Barry, who would return to his preferred left flank in place of Peter Whittingham.

Upton Park would be a fitting place for young Milner's latest fresh start following his season-long arrival from Newcastle as the makeweight in the Nolberto Solano deal. It is not even three years since Milner made his debut in east London for Leeds United, coming on as a fresh-faced 16-year-old substitute in a 4-3 win.

That was two months before he scored goals in successive games during Christmas 2002 against Sunderland and Chelsea, a week prior to his 17th birthday. The player who cost Newcastle United £3.6 million from Leeds a year ago turns 20 in January.

He said: "It's not been easy for me but you look forward rather than back. It has been frustrating as I want to become the best player I can by playing every week, or as near as I can to that.

"The manager at Newcastle wanted more experience and brought in Nobby Solano, who's a great player but I'm just pleased the manager here wanted me.

"I started playing for the first team at Leeds a few months after he'd left, but Roy Aitken and Steve McGregor, part of the coaching staff here now, were still at Elland Road then, so I know the way they all operate and I know what he's like.

"I know there's been some big changes here and for me ,too, but that's football for you. Things happen quickly and nothing's changed, really. It's just another day at the football club.

"The deal's been done and, while I'd like to see Newcastle do well, really l just want to concentrate now on Aston Villa."

It might influence O'Leary's thinking that he has someone playing tonight who has encountered West Ham this season.

Despite twice scoring in Newcastle's InterToto Cup campaign in July and early August, Milner has made only one Premiership start so far - against the Hammers 22 days ago.

"We drew 0-0 with them at St James', so I know they're a very organised side who are hard to break down and have got some good players," he said. " They've got a great set of fans, too, who make a lot of noise, so it's not an easy start."