Aston Villa v Southampton predictions: Villa Park clash could be a tight affair

Free football tips, best bets and analysis for Aston Villa v Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday.

When to bet

3pm Saturday

Best bet

Draw
1pt 5-2 bet365, Betfred, Coral

Team news

Aston Villa
Villa have no fresh injuries and are expected to name the same starting 11 after returning to winning ways at Brighton last weekend. Marvelous Nakamba is closing in on a return from a knee injury but Saturday's match will come to soon.

Southampton
Alex McCarthy, Lyanco and Nathan Tella remain long-term absentees for Southampton but Mohammed Salisu, Mohamed Elyounoussi, Shane Long and Kyle Walker-Peters are expected to shake off knocks.

Match preview

Victory at Brighton came as a welcome relief for Aston Villa and it was perhaps no surprise that their improved performance coincided with Ezri Konsa's return from suspension.

Ollie Watkins also scored his first goal since December so don't expect any changes from Steven Gerrard, although an in-form Southampton side should prove a different kettle of fish.

Ralph Hasenhuttl's men are unbeaten in seven games in all competitions, giving the big boys a run for their money to boot, while an understrength side progressed in the FA Cup at the expense of West Ham.

Confidence should be with the Saints, particularly as they have won on their last three visits to Villa Park, and are unbeaten in six trips, although their away form this season has been a struggle.

The Saints have won just three times on the road this campaign and, having become draw specialists, they might have to settle for a share of the spoils for the 12th time this term on Saturday.

Key stat

Southampton are unbeaten on their last six visits to Villa.

Inside info

Aston Villa

Penalty taker Danny Ings
Free-kick wizard Philippe Coutinho
Set-piece aerial threat Ezri Konsa
Card magnet Matty Cash

Southampton

Penalty taker James Ward-Prowse
Free-kick wizard James Ward-Prowse
Set-piece aerial threat Jan Bednarek
Card magnet Mohammed Salisu

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