Aston Villa v Bolton

Aston Villa

• Defender Carlos Cuellar is available again after a one-match ban.
• Martin O’Neill’s side has lost just one of their last 12 meetings against Bolton.
• Ashley Young is hoping to score against Bolton for the third game running.
• Gabriel Agbonlahor netted twice in Villa’s 4-1 win at Villa Park last season.

• James Milner faces a late fitness tests on a calf strain.
• Striker Emile Heskey is doubtful with a back injury.
• Midfielder Stilyan Petrov and defender Habib Beye are out with one-match bans.
• Villa have taken just three points from their last four games.
• Defender Curtis Davies is still sidelined by long-term injury.
• Villa have gone six league games without recording a clean sheet.

Bolton Wanderers

• Striker Kevin Davies is needs two goals to bring up his half century in the league for Bolton.
• Davies scored at both ends in last season’s corresponding fixture.

• Defender Jlloyd Samuel is banned for the clash against his former club.
• Bolton have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 12 games.
• Gary Megson’s side are still the only Premier League team yet to keep a clean sheet this campaign.
• The Trotters have conceded ten goals in their last three games.

Expert Advice

Villa were riding on the crest of a wave a month ago after beating Chelsea but not much has gone right for them since and they need a quick return to form if they are to seriously challenge the top four places. The biggest problem for the Midlanders at the moment seems to be an inability to turn chances into goals which has led to three draws in the last four games. Prior to losing at Chelsea, Bolton have enjoyed themselves on the road this season and seem sure to give a good account of themselves. But Villa have held the upper hand in recent meetings and, with home advantage, we suggest Betsson’s odds of 3.75 for a Villa win by one goal as a sound bet.

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