Aston Villa will face a new challenge to their supremacy at this month's HKFC IP Global International Sevens - from fierce local rivals Birmingham City.
Villa will be going for their third Cup victory in a row - and fifth overall - at Hong Kong Football Club from May 29-31. But they will face stiff opposition from city rivals Birmingham, newly promoted to the English Premier League and now making their debut in the Sevens.
The arch-rivals were paired together in pool C and sets the scene for a mouth-watering showdown on the second day of the tournament. Hong Kong side Citizen and Singapore Cricket Club are the other two teams in the pool.
Villa youth academy director Bryan Jones said: 'Aston Villa are delighted to be taking part again this year.
'It will be a good opportunity for our young players to gain some valuable experience and I know one or two of last year's squad are keen to try to win the trophy.'
West Ham United have also been confirmed for the showpiece together with Scottish giants Celtic and Rangers.
