Sheffield United host an Aston Villa side that has struggled of late with form and consistency. The Blade’s come into the game after an impressive 2-1 win over Norwich City. Now, coming up against another promoted team from the last campaign, it provides Sheffield with the perfect opportunity to get back-to-back wins for the first time in the Premier League since December 2006.
Aston Villa will be hoping that they can exploit their fellow promoted team, in Sheffield. Villa were abysmal last time out against Leicester City at home, losing 4-1. With Tyrone Mings and Matt Targett injured in those games, the backline for this match against the Blades will be reshuffled. Ahmed Elmohamady could come into the left-back position. I personally, would like to see Kortney Hause come in and play at left-back. Engles is the natural selection for the injured Mings. Who is out until early 2020.
In the top flight, Aston Villa have a compressive record against their hosts. From the 6 encounters between the two sides, Villa have won 5 of the encounters and the other ended in a draw. Villa’s best-win % record against any current Premier League side.
Sheffield United showed on the weekend against Norwich that they can score from any outlet. Both wingbacks, Former Villain Enda Stevens and Chris Baldock scored the two goals in their triumph away from home at Carrow Road. Lys Mousset is expected to make his return against Villa after coming off early against Norwich through injury. This may be off the bench, with Callum Robinson, Billy Sharp and David McGoldrick all being attacking options Chris Wilder could turn too.
These two teams demonstrated opposing pictures after a successful promotion campaign. Sheffield United have enjoyed impressive results and currently sit 8th in the league. Aston Villa have shown glimpse but they have mostly been inconsistent, sitting 17th. Villa in dire need of a win to lift them above the relegation zone with more of breathing space. United will be hoping that a win will keep the pressure on Tottenham, Manchester United and Wolverhampton above them in touching distance.
Concluding, I’d expect a free-flowing game with both sides playing open game styles. A championship style touch encounter with the elegance of the Premier League. Villa will scrap to a win, with Wesley silencing his critics. John Fleck scoring the sole goal for Sheffield. Exciting matchup ahead that’s for sure. Tune in!
