The Boxing Day is always a special day for football fans around the world. Aston Villa will be celebrating the Boxing Day away from the Premier League this time out after so many years but their fixture on this special day is an easy one against Burton Albion who are just one spot above the danger zone. The Villans are 13th in the table and the gap between them and the final playoff spot is now six points and Steve Bruce will be keen to close the gap.
Aston Villa’s recent form has been up and down. They have won 3, drawn 1 and lost 2 of their last six games. However, the job Steve Bruce has done since taking over from Roberto de Matteo is immense and deserves a lot of plaudits. We expect Bruce to name a much-changed lineup against Burton so that his key players stay fresh for the busy festive season when Villa lock horns with strong sides like Leeds United and Cardiff City.
Bruce made six changes against QPR last week and still won the game. They have a pretty deep squad and we expect that to come to use against Burton. Here is the predicted Aston Villa lineup against Burton Albion.
Defence
Promising young keeper Pierluigi Gollini is likely to start under the bar. Fit-again Nathan Baker is expected to start at the heart of the defence alongside James Chester. The partnership between Chester and Baker has worked the best for Villa this season and they are likely to continue which means that experienced Tommy Elphick will once again sit on the bench. Alan Hutton and Jordan Amavi are likely to start in the two full-back positions.
Midfield
Mile Jedinak is clearly an influential member of the side with the steel he brings to midfield. The Aussie’s defensive discipline and decent passing ability make him a key player at Villa Park. Young Gary Gardner has been impressive in the middle of the par for Villa but we expect him to start from the bench against Burton so that Villa have him fresh for the Leeds game. Ashley Westwood will be called upon by Bruce. Youngster Jack Grealish will start in the number ten role.
Attack
Jonathan Kodija is enjoying a pretty good run of form this season and should keep his place up front. Jordan Ayew will keep his place on the left. Albert Adomah could start on the right flank and will be looking to keep impressing.
