Aston Villa v Sunderland preview: Villa have a big chance to build momentum

Another week, another game. This time, the fallen giants clash - as Sunderland visit Villa Park, at the perfect time for both teams, oddly enough.

What to know about Aston Villa

Aston Villa under Steve Bruce are a mixed team. They aren’t as good as they could be, and aren’t as bad as they can be. They are somewhere in-between. That’s not to say that Villa are awful, but more to say that the identity of this team is still somewhat murky. Sometimes strugglers and on other occasions, attacking brutes. The results come in patches as well, but who are we to moan if Villa are winning? As long as the good times keep rolling, we’re all feeling good!

Last time out, Villa dismantled QPR, but their return to Villa Park after a problematic loss to Sheffield Wednesday will bring the nerves to the occasion. Villa have proven to be ‘road warriors’ this season, but will look to tear Sunderland apart at home to get back on track in front of the Villa faithful.

Despite lacking senior firepower, Villa are thriving thanks to the unselfish play of smart youngster, Keinan Davis. Davis links an attacking trio of Snodgrass, Adomah and Onomah very well, and if all of these players gel right, Sunderland could be in big trouble.

However, Sunderland come to this match in true underdog spirit, and the ‘don’t tread on us’ mentality could lead to the Black Cats finding their teeth, for the first time this season under their new boss, Chris Coleman,

What to know about Sunderland

Sunderland have been pitiful this entire season, thanks to confusion on and off the pitch. Simon Grayson failed to make a mark, and now former Wales boss, and legend - Chris Coleman, has taken the reigns at this faltering giant. Sunderland’s situation is dire, but Coleman is the embodiment of ‘the underdog’ and has the knack for making a team greater than the sum of their parts. Sunderland are not Wales though, and boast a playing staff that is utterly demoralised. Coleman will have his work cut out, but will equally look to make his mark. What better way than beating Villa?

The prediction

I feel good about Villa winning this match, but there’s every chance Sunderland could spring a trap on an over confident Villa here. However, new manager or not - Villa shouldn’t be losing to the team propping up the Championship table. That being said, Sunderland have to get a win somewhere! Villa will win, but it might not be as comfortable as you’d hope.