Christian Benteke: Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert weighing up return

Christian Benteke scored 23 goals in all competitions in his debut season in England

Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke could return from a lengthy injury lay-off against Manchester City on Saturday after scoring on his return to action.

He has been out since April with a ruptured Achilles but played 63 minutes and scored a penalty as Villa's under 21 side beat Bolton 3-0 on Monday.

Manager Paul Lambert said: "We're delighted with how he came through.

"He scored and his general play was good, too, considering how long he's been away from it."

Lambert added: "We'll see how he feels and how he recovers but it was a good, positive step for him ."

Injury ruled the Belgium international out of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil during the summer.

But the 23-year-old returned to full training two weeks ago.

He has has scored 34 goals in 67 games for the West Midlands club since joining them in August 2012 for £7m from Belgian club Genk.

Villa host Premier League champions City on Saturday at 17:30 BST and Lambert added: "I'll have that dialogue with him. We'll see how he feels.

"If we think he's justified to go in with his fitness levels then that's something that myself and the staff will decide.

"First and foremost I don't think there's any pressure on him. You don't heap pressure on somebody who's just coming back from that injury."