Five key fixtures for Aston Villa fans to mark on their calendar

11th September Chelsea (A)

From the surface, you’re probably looking at Chelsea away and wondering why on Earth this is being noted as a key fixture, but this is why.

Chelsea is the first major test Dean Smith’s side will face at the start of the 2021 campaign. The three games prior, albeit bringing mixed results, Villa have gone into as favourites.

Many will have been looking at nine points as a very realistic return from the first three and although that didn’t develop, Thomas Tuchel’s men will pose the first real benchmark as to where this Villa team are. The new players have now had time to gel and key players have returned to fitness - this game should highlight the real Villa.

Chelsea are expected to challenge for the title this year and they are showing those credentials early doors. Whilst nobody is expecting Smith’s team to do that - they are wanting an improvement on last season. This one could answer many questions about this new-look squad.

16th October Wolves (H)

Whilst the Blues sit in a separate league to the Villa, Wolves remain their nearest and dearest rivals.

Wanderers have been the team on top in the west midlands over the last few seasons but now might be the time for that power to shift.

October 16th is the date set for the first derby of the season and after nearly two years without one - the atmosphere here could be a memorable one.

30th November Manchester City (H)

It doesn’t really need an explanation, does it?

Villa Park will be interesting to say the least when Manchester City come to town at the end of November.

It will be the first time Grealish has returned since his controversial exit and the fan reaction and overall atmosphere will be one that will probably stay with those in attendance forever.

Some will applaud, many will boo. Whatever the personal feeling over the move, there’s absolutely no doubt that Villans will do everything in their power to show Grealish exactly what he’s missing.

28th December Leeds United (A)

Leeds away just after Christmas you say? Say goodbye to all that money you’ve just been presented with a few days prior.

This newly formed rivalry hasn’t had fans in attendance since the Yorkshire side were promoted back into the Premier League. It’s going to be a fun one.

22nd May Manchester City (A)

Including the same team in a list twice isn’t usually the done thing unless it is the fiercest of rivals.

But, Manchester City away, on the last day of the season? The script is ready made.

T-shirt and shorts are on for the first time in 2022. The company is great and the drinks are flowing.

You’re picturing it now. Villa win to secure a European place and in doing so, deny City the title. Even those with no ill-will at all towards their former captain would find it hard not to smile.

That’s why we love football.