Aston Villa hope to bounce back from Friday night's disappointment by claiming a result against Man United at Old Trafford in the Premier League. Villa - afforded a day's more rest than the Red Devils face Erik Ten Hag's out-of-form side in their Boxing Day clash.
Villa missed the chance to go top albeit for 12-hours at least by drawing 1-1 with Sheffield United. The Blades went in front through former striker Cameron Archer but then Nicolo Zaniolo opened his Villa Park account with a goal in the seventh minute of stoppage time. A win for Villa will keep them in touch with Liverpool who play away at Burnley earlier on in the day, whilst Arsenal don't play until December 28. The dropping of any points could allow Spurs, who play against Brighton on December 28, the chance to go level with them. A win for United could move them into the top six.
The last meeting between the two sides was a narrow 1-0 win for United back in April 2023 in which Bruno Fernandes scored. In Villa's last ten meetings with United they've won two, drawn two and lost si, and don't hold the best of records at Old Trafford. The 1-0 win in September 2021 was their first since 2009, however this has been the season in which Villa have ended long winless runs against 'Big Six' opposition.
It's been a busy period for Villa, and they've picked up some injuries along the way. United do seem to have it worse however, and they're without some key players for this one. Here's all the latest team news for the Villains and Man United.
1. Youri Tielemans - out
Suffered a calf injury and has missed the last three games against Zrinjski, Brentford and Sheffield United. Tipped to return in the New Year, perhaps in time for their FA Cup third round clash. Photo: Getty Images
2. Youri Tielemans - out (continued)
Unai Emery said on December 22: "Youri, we are thinking maybe not more than two weeks, but he is now working alone and recovering his injury in his calf." Photo: Getty Images
3. Victor Lindelof - out
Lindelof has missed the past four games for United, despite being pictured in training last week. Ten Hag revealed he had to undergo surgery, however the extent of his injury was not revealed. Photo: Getty Images
4. Victor Lindelof - out (continued)
Erik Ten Hag said on December 22: "Victor is not available. He has done surgery, so he will be out for a couple of weeks.'