Villama Preview: Aston Villa v Leeds United

Originally slated to be played on December 28th of last year, Aston Villa host Leeds United this evening. The Whites will likely be without star player and one-time Villa target, Kalvin Phillips, as well as everyone’s favorite pugilist, Patrick Bamford, for the contest. Liam Cooper will be out as well for the away side.

In their last three outings, the West Yorkshire outfit won at home 3-1 over Burnley, 3-2 at West Ham, and most recently had the pleasure of 1-0 loss to the goliath that is Newcastle United. Players to look out for on the pitch for Leeds are Jack Harrison and Raphinha in the attacking midfield positions and Stuart Dallas at left-back.

Villa’s lineup shouldn’t be terribly shocking, with Marvelous Nakamba, Bertrand Traore, and Leon Bailey all missing out, but everyone else seems to be available. Emi Martinez will reprise his starting spot in goal, with Lucas Digne playing left-back and Matty Cash playing on the right. At center-back, Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa will pair. The midfield trio of Douglas Luiz, Jacob Ramsey, and Super John McGinn look to continue solid form. Further up the pitch, Philippe Coutinho and Emi Buendia are expected to flank Ollie Watkins.

PREDICTION: It seems like it’s been months since Villa had last stepped on the football pitch, and they’re eyeballing an opponent that seems ripe for a beating. The time off could be a double edged sword, but I feel confident in an Aston Villa win; 2-0 to the Villa.

Photo by Neville Williams/Aston Villa FC via Getty Images