Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Tom Kershaw

Aston Villa vs Brighton prediction: How will Premier League fixture play out?

Photograph: Getty

Aston Villa host Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon. 

Dean Smith’s side have enjoyed a fantastic start to the season, winning five of their opening seven games, while new signings Ollie Watkins, Matty Cash and Emiliano Martinez are all flourishing. 

After defeats against Leeds and Southampton, Villa responded in emphatic style against Arsenal, winning 3-0 to move back inside the top-six. 

Meanwhile, Brighton are languishing in 16th, having taken just six points from their opening eight matches, despite often playing very attractive football. 

Graham Potter’s side now urgently need to start converting their promising displays into points to avoid another relegation battle. Here is everything you need to know:

Jack Grealish has been in fantastic form for Villa so far this season (Getty)

When is it and what time is kick-off?

The match will begin at 3pm on Saturday 21 November at Villa Park. 

How can I watch it?

The game will be broadcast live on BT Sport, with the usual 3pm blackout suspended from Saturday until next year.

What is the team news?

Aston Villa: Wesley Moraes remains a long-term absentee due to a knee injury. Kortney Hause is nearing a return from a groin strain, while goalkeeper Thomas Heaton is also attempting to regain fitness, however, the game is likely to come too soon. Bertrand Traore was ruled out prior to the international break but is likely be available. 

Brighton: Leandro Trossard and Solly March are unlikely to recover from injuries in time, but Lewis Dunk will return from suspension. Florin Andone remains a long-term absentee. 

Predicted line-ups

Aston Villa: Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Mings, Targett, Luiz, McGinn, Trezeguet, Barkley, Grealish, Watkins

Brighton: Ryan, Lamptey, Dunk, White, Webster, Burn, Gross, Bissouma, Lallana, Welbeck, Maupay 

Prediction

Aston Villa have enjoyed a brilliant start to the season and should their momentum continue after the international break, they should have enough firepower to break down Brighton, who have shown great flourishes themselves but have often struggled to find the cutting edge to take three points. Aston Villa 2-1 Brighton 

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.