Countdown To Kick-Off: late betting and team news

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3pm Saturday

Aston Villa v West Brom

Defensive frailties have hampered Aston Villa's promotion push and the injury to key centre-back James Chester, who is missing for the fourth league game in a row, should be good news for their West Midlands rivals West Brom.

Only relegation candidates Rotherham and Ipswich have leaked more than Aston Villa's 50-goal total this season and Chester's absence once again leaves Dean Smith's defence looking vulnerable.

Dwight Gayle is suspended for the Baggies, but their attacking ranks have been bolstered by the return of Hal Robson-Kanu, who has passed a late fitness test at Villa Park.

Jay Rodriguez, who has 16 league goals and netted in December's 2-2 draw at the Hawthorns, could make hay against such fragile opponents. With strike partner Gayle sidelined, he makes plenty of appeal to open the scoring.

Villa have conceded two or more in seven of their last eight home games, shipping three times against title challengers Leeds and Sheffield United.

Recommendations
J Rodriguez first goalscorer
1pt each-way 6-1 bet365
Over 1.5 West Brom goals
2pts 5-4 general

Bet on this match at Soccerbase.com

Carlisle v MK Dons

Chuks Aneke's 88th-minute winner at Newport in midweek has reignited MK Dons' automatic promotion hopes and they look value to follow up at Carlisle, who are without the suspended Jamie Devitt.

Dons were without a win in six away league games prior to their hard-fought 1-0 success at Rodney Parade and Aneke's late strike surely has to get a positive reaction.

Paul Tisdale has plenty of quality at his disposal and he makes just one change from their latest venture with Jake Hesketh replacing David Wheeler.

Carlisle are likely to miss the services of leading marksman Devitt, who has nine league goals and six assists this season.

Recommendation
MK Dons draw no bet
2pts 8-11 general

Bet on this match at Soccerbase.com

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