Hendrie is a possible solution to Villa's injury problems

The loss of Luke Moore (shoulder) and Martin Laursen (knee) to long-term injuries has stretched Villa's already limited resources.

O'Neill said: "Recalling Lee is a distinct possibility, he is at Stoke for two months but we can recall him at any time if we want him.

"As he gets fitter with every game, it can only be better news for us."

O'Neill has one of the smallest squads in the Premiership and is considering adding to it in the January transfer window.

The former Celtic manager, who has guided Villa to fourth spot in the Premiership, did not make wholesale changes to his squad upon his appointment.

606 DEBATE: Should Villa bring Hendrie back from Stoke?

Villa owner Randy Lerner has made it clear funds are available and O'Neill said: "Myself and Mr Lerner have talked about trying to strengthen the squad.

"I had to try and get some idea of the quality of our squad before I started delving into the market.

"Obviously, I signed Stiliyan Petrov and there was the possibility of getting James Milner from Newcastle which fell through, but that's the way it goes."

Villa face a testing schedule of 10 games before O'Neill can consider adding to his squad in the January transfer window.