Aston Villa are yet to be beaten in the Championship, but they would go up against Sheffield United having been defeated by Burton Albion in the Carabao Cup tie. Even in the league, they have drawn games which they should have won. Steve Bruce would be aware that he needs to pick his team up so that they can once again challenge for promotion to the Premier League.
United would hope for a positive result given that they are playing at home and have won their last two games. We expect a very closely fought encounter between the two. To be fair, Villa are on a downward spiral of form right now as they have failed to win any of their last four encounters.
Team news
Midfield star Jack Grealish is doubtful for this encounter as he suffered a knock to the thigh against Reading. However, we believe he would pass his late fitness test to start the game. New signing John McGinn’s status is also slightly uncertain as he is struggling with a knee problem. It can be touch and go, and like Grealish, he would also go through a late fitness assessment. Jonathan Kodjia missed the last game against Burton Albion but is expected to play a part in this game. Keinan Davis and Scott Hogan remain the long-term absentees.
Aston Villa’s Predicted Lineup vs Sheffield United
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
New signing Ørjan Nyland has taken well to his role in between the sticks, and we expect him to start. Australian midfielder turned defender Mile Jedinak will start in the heart of the defence and would be partnered by club captain James Chester. The centre-back pairing has struggled so far, and Steve Bruce would want to see huge improvements from his two experienced men.
On the right side of the defence, Manchester United’s loanee Axel Tuanzebe should start. Experienced Alan Hutton will start down the left side in defence.
Midfield
We expect McGinn to recover from his knee problem and be fit in time for this game. He is going to be partnered by Birkir Bjarnason. Both of them would like to keep things tight and moving in midfield.
New signing Yannick Bolasie should be given his first start of the season down the right flank. Bolasie can be a massive coup for the manager if he remains fit and starts to deliver on his final product. Jack Grealish’s situation is also uncertain, but we believe he would be fit in time to start in his usual attacking midfield role. Down the left, another one Villa’s new signing, Anwar El Ghazi should start.
Attack
Kodjia sat out the game against Burton but would be expected to lead the line at Bramall Lane against The Blades.
