MATCH PREVIEW
Imagine if Villa hadn’t endured such a torrid run of form from the New Year?
We could be going into the game against Norwich in real contention for a run at the playoffs.
The reality is though that whilst we are in a decent run (top of the form table based in the last 6 games), the remaining games are at best an early pre-season.
In a positive sense we are finally beginning to see the makings of a promotion team, but equally, we need to be consistent winners both home and away.
This is a great opportunity to test ourselves against a side who are desperately clawing at the final playoff spot. Â Indeed, this should in theory be another measure against a side with ambitions similar to own our this season. Â Sheffield Wednesday aside, we have struggled when up against sides around the top spots.
However, Norwich have it all to do after an erratic season.
Indeed, their decision to sack manager Alex Neil having at that time become 9 points adrift of the playoffs, underlines what’s at stake. Â They are now just 5 points behind 6th placed Wednesday, so their trip to Villa is crucial.
KEY FACTS
- Norwich 8th (57pts) – Villa 12th (51pts)
- Norwich won reverse fixture 1-0.
- Form based on last 6 games:
- Villa (1st)
- Norwich (16th)
- Villa ranked 13th best at home in last 8 games.
- Norwich ranked 19th away from home in last 8.
- 1 win in 13 away from Carrow Road.
- Norwich Top Scorer: Cameron Jerome. (14)
- Norwich Most Assists: Wes Hoolahan. (8)
- Injured: Thigh & misses out.
- Mile Jedinak a doubt (late return from Australia)
- Nathan Baker is now match fit to deputise.
- Jack Grealish also returns following a knee injury.
- Alan Irvine caretaker Canaries boss.
- Villa could rise to 10th with a win.
- Could fall as low as 15th with a loss
- A win would be the 4th consecutive at Villa Park.
- Neil Taylor will start after the Seamus Coleman tackle.
PREDICTIONS?
With Villa’s upturn in form, strong home record & Norwich’s poor away record; home win.
Score: 2-0 to Villa.