Unai Emery's side are being questioned after winning two of their past six Premier League games, and falling to three home defeats in five matches at the once impenetrable Villa Park.
They remain third and can strengthen their position with victory at rock bottom Wolves on Friday.
Villa can move nine points clear of Chelsea, before Liam Rosenior takes them to leaders Arsenal on Sunday, and close to within two points of second-placed Manchester City.
Emery's team have been in the top four since beating Leeds on 23 November.