And Bolton boss Gary Megson sees signs that his £8m record signing could be poised to break that 11-month drought.
The Swedish international, whose only goal in the intervening period came in last month's Carling Cup win over West Ham, impressed against Chelsea last Saturday.
So, he will expect to keep his place for the trip to Villa Park where his goal last December came during a 4-2 defeat.
"Against Chelsea, Johan linked up well with Kevin Davies and looked a big threat," said Megson. "He also showed a couple of decent touches when he came on at Stamford Bridge last week.
"I keep talking to Johan all the time about staying positive. He must look to stay more on the front foot.
Megson confidence
"But most of all he needs to get in front of goal and look to finish rather than doing it on the fringes.
"He must have had four shots at goal last Saturday and he needs to keep doing that."
Megson feels the competition for places provided by Ivan Klasnic has also helped Elmander step up to the mark.
Ironically, Klasnic missed the 4-0 defeat at the Reebok Stadium with a calf problem. He is expected to be fit for the Villa match.
"We are not a million miles away but at the moment it looks like we need three goals to win a game," added Megson.
Wanderers have been linked with players from Real Madrid to Bristol City ahead of the transfer window re-opening.
Guti is reportedly a target as are City pair, Nicky Maynard and Marvin Elliott.
Rovers have already swooped for Guti's former team mate, Michel Salgado.
Will Elmander score against Aston Villa? Have your say.
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