Aston Villa host their fellow Premier League counterparts Newcastle United this weekend. Villa will be rested and ready for this clash as they continue to stake a claim in the league as real competitors. They have struggled more than many people would have expected after their sizeable investment. However, many supports and fellow football lovers will have to allow some more time for everything to gel properly.
Aston Villa fans who support their club week in week out, they see how Engels and Mings are forming a stronger bond in the centre of defence. Tom Heaton’s communication has improved as a whole across the backline from that horrendous goal he conceded against AFC Bournemouth.
Marvellous Nakamba has been simply marvellous in the centre of the park and he has allowed the likes of Douglas Luiz, Jack Grealish and John McGinn to roam forward. With those three midfielders contributing seven goals so far this campaign.
Wesley has shown his brilliance, that has rewarded him with his maiden Brazil call-up. Therefore, fans are forgiving when he shows frustration and annoyance during games. He works extremely hard and is learning every week.
Villa host a Newcastle side that has won seven out of a possible nine points in their last three encounters. Including back-to-back wins against West Ham and AFC Bournemouth. They have struggled upfront though, only scoring a mere 11 goals in 13 games. Which is equal second lowest in the Premier League. Aston Villa, on the other hand, have scored 17 goals across the season to date.
Having lost agonisingly late to Liverpool and Villa were outplayed by a talented Manchester City recently. However, the loss to Wolverhampton would have hurt the most. Three defeats on a trot will be something manager, Dean Smith will be hoping to curb. It’s now been a month since Villa’s last win, the 2-1 win at home against Brighton & Hove Albion.
For Villa, they will be fielding a full-strength team to tackle the Magpies. It is believed that Heaton, who was withdrawn from the Wolverhampton clash will step back into the starting team. If not Nyland will get a second game between the sticks. Jack Grealish is facing a test for the game, it wouldn’t surprise me if we don’t see him until the next matchday, away to Manchester United.
Newcastle will also be looking to make no more changes to their starting team after their good run of form recently. Joelinton, Almiron and both Longstaff brothers all expected to start the game.
PREDICTION
I predict this game will be played on the host’s terms, with Villa boasting the majority of possession and shots. However, they are known to be less than clinical. Newcastle will attack on the counter, with Jonjo Shelvey pulling the strings for them. I do see Villa’s backline holding out through the waves of attack and snatch a close win for the home side.