Southampton can swap places in the relegation zone with victory against Aston Villa as they sit level on points but with an inferior goal difference. Villa have lost their last three but making the Carabao Cup semi-finals in emphatic fashion may have restored confidence. Wesley scoring for the first time since 6 October was a particular highlight for Dean Smith. A little lift may be all that is required to beat Southampton, who have slumped to two straight defeats. Tyrone Mings missing out again will be a relief for Danny Ings – Southampton’s only goal threat. An early pointer to where these clubs will be next season. Graham Searles
Saturday 3pm
Venue Villa Park
Last season n/a
Referee Craig Pawson
This season G9 Y34 R1 3.88 cards/game
Odds H 6-4 A 2-1 D 5-2
ASTON VILLA
Subs from Nyland, Kalinic, Taylor, Chester, Ramsey, Lansbury, Kodjia, Jota, O’Hare, Trézéguet, Elmohamady, Douglas Luiz, Konsa
Doubtful None
Injured Davis, Mings (both hamstring, 28 Dec), Steer (achilles, unknown)
Suspended None
Discipline Y30 R1
Form LWDLLL
Leading scorers Grealish, Wesley 4
SOUTHAMPTON
Subs from Gunn, Lewis, Yoshida, Danso, Adams, Romeu, Obafemi, Vokins, Slattery, Boufal, Ramsay, Sims, McQueen, Long
Doubtful Boufal (toe), Danso (ill)
Injured Djenepo (hamstring, 26 Dec), Valery (ill, Jan)
Suspended None
Discipline Y22 R2
Form LDWWLL
Leading scorer Ings 9
