Dunne had to be substituted at half-time during the weekend draw with visiting Bolton with a knee problem.
If he is ruled out, then Carlos Cuellar is a strong candidate to replace the former Manchester City player in Houllier's first game in charge.
Winger Stewart Downing suffered a gashed shin against Bolton but is expected to be fit.
Villa reached the final of the competition last season and knocked Blackburn out of the FA Cup and Carling Cup.
Villa (from): Friedel, Guzan, Luke Young, Dunne, Cuellar, Davies, Collins, Warnock, Albrighton, Petrov, Ireland, Reo-Coker, Downing, Ashley Young, Carew, Heskey, Agbonlahor, Delfouneso, Clark, Bannan.
