Tom Heaton says that Aston Villa will give Manchester United a run for their money on Saturday, despite the loss of Jack Grealish.
The United goalkeeper spent two seasons at Villa Park from 2019 to 2021 and is fully aware of what the Claret and Blue Army can do.
Speaking to the United Review, he said: “I look back with real fond memories and I really enjoyed playing for the side. It’s a great football club and I’ve got a lot of pride at playing for them. I’m delighted to be here now, though, and taking this challenge as well.”
The 35-year-old returned to his boyhood club in the summer, but with David De Gea and Dean Henderson ahead of him in the pecking order, he may be waiting a while to make his senior debut for the Red Devils.
He has played at Old Trafford several times before, albeit on the opposing team, most recently with Villa in a 2-2 draw and Heaton predicts that the upcoming clash will be another close encounter, even after the visitors sold their talisman in the summer.
“Obviously, they lost Jack Grealish to [Manchester] City, but I think they have strengthened in other areas, and I expect a strong attacking display from them," he added.
"Hopefully, we can keep that quiet and take the game to them in our offensive half.
“I think it will be a strong test, but the focus will be on us and what we do and how we go about it. I think if we get that right, I am confident we will be going out on top.”
Manchester United vs Aston Villa kicks off Saturday at 12:30pm.
