The talented trio have missed all of pre-season so far after they helped England reach the final of the European Under-21 Championships in Sweden earlier in the summer.
But Martin O'Neill is now keen to give them some sort of game time with the opening day clash with Wigan just a week away.
Milner and Agbonlahor are likely to start that game, while Gardner will probably be on the bench so it is crucial that they get their fitness right.
Fabian Delph gets his non-competitive home debut, whilst Stewart Downing is of course out with a long term injury.
Villa starting line up:
1. Brad Friedel
2. Eric Lichaj
3. Nicky Shorey
4. Ciaran Clark
5. Carlos Cuellar
6. Craig Gardner
7. Fabian Delph
8. James Milner
9. Emile Heskey
10. Gabby Agbonlahor
11. Ashley Young (c)
Subs:
Steve Sidwell, John Carew, Nathan Delfouneso, Nigel Reo-Coker, Marc Albrighton, Curtis Davies, Brad Guzan, Shane Lowry