Steve Bruce started his reign at Aston Villa with a 1-1 draw against local rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers but the scoreline could have been much worse for the Villans had their opponents taken their chances in the second half. Steve Bruce must have come to known the full size of the job he took last week. Eight draws in 12 games- it has been a frustrating season for the fans so far and Bruce has to ensure that the team improves really soon.
With the money Aston Villa splashed during the summer, we had expected them to contend strongly for an immediate promotion. It’s been anything but that, though. Steve Bruce will lead his side to the Madejski Stadium on Tuesday to take on Reading who had an impressive start to the season and are sitting just one spot behind the final playoff spot.
Reading are on the back of a three-game winless streak which includes one loss and two draws and will be eager to get back to winning ways. Aston Villa will also be determined to clinch their second win of the season adding further woes to the Royals.
Here is the predicted Aston Villa lineup vs Reading.
Defence
Italian custodian Pierluigi Gollini will start under the bar ahead of Mark Bunn and Jed Steer. Micah Richards is likely to get a start in the right-back position ahead of Alan Hutton. Skipper Tommy Elphick and James Chester will start as the two central defenders. We expect Jordan Amavi to get a start in the left-back position ahead of Aly Cissokho.
Midfield
Ashley Westwood and Aaron Tshibola will start as the two central midfielders. Mile Jedinak started the last game but Aston Villa lacked any kind of creativity in the middle of the park. So, we expect Westwood to make his way back to the starting XI. Albert Adomah should retain his place on the right flank. Youngster Jack Grealish was impressive against Wolves on Saturday earning the penalty and should retain his place on the left flank.
Attack
Aston Villa have struggled badly for goals this season having managed just 11 goals so far. Steve Bruce has to figure out a way to get the best out of his attackers as they don’t lack the quality on paper at least.
The pair of McCormack and Kodija started the last game up front and could not deliver. We expect Jordan Ayew to get his chance up front alongside McCormack against Reading.
