Aston Villa vs West Brom: Premier League match preview
A look ahead to this weekend's Premier League fixture at Villa Park
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.West Bromwich Albion face local rivals, Aston Villa, in Tuesday evening’s clash on the back of three consecutive clean sheets in the league. With only three goals in their last 12 Premier League fixtures, Villa won’t welcome their in-form neighbours.
Since the arrival of Tony Pulis, West Brom’s form has risen, only losing once so far in 2015, including five clean sheets in their last seven games. Tim Sherwood’s arrival has failed to spark similar form and Villa have failed to record a win in the league since early December when they beat Leicester City.
Aston Villa have scored a woeful 13 goals all season and despite glimpses of improvement under new boss, Sherwood, the home side won’t be considered favourites in the clash with their rivals.
Saido Berahino, who’s scored 11 goals so far this season for West Brom currently sits 6th in the Premier League top goal-scoring ranks and threatens to extend his tally at Villa Park. The striker limped off on Saturday against Southampton so his appearance may be doubtful.
The Villa captain, Ron Vlaar, has completed a ban but it remains uncertain whether or not he’ll feature with an injury concern.
The last time these two met, back in December, West Brom came through as winners thanks to a solitary goal. Although there have been changes in management for both sides, you get the feeling that it’s the visitors who have had a more positive change.
KICK-OFF: Tuesday, 7.45pm
PAST THREE MEETINGS…
West Bromwich Albion 1 (Gardner) Aston Villa 0 Premier League, December 2014
Aston Villa 4 (Weimann, Bacuna, Delph, Benteke) West Bromwich Albion 3 (Brunt, Delph OG, Mulumbu) Premier League, January 2014
West Bromwich Albion 2 (Long 2) Aston Villa 2 (Ahmadi, Westwood) Premier League, November 2013
STATS...
In each of their 17 Premier League encounters, the score-line has finished a draw or a victory with a one-goal margin.
Aston Villa have lost seven league matches in a row - their worst run for 52 years.
West Bromwich Albion are without a win in eight away games, drawing the last four.
In their most recent encounters, Villa have only won one in the last eight clashes.
ODDS...
Aston Villa to win: 7/5
West Brom to win: 2/1
Draw: 11/5
TV: Live on BT Sport 1 at 7.45pm
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments