Back-to-back losses to both Liverpool and Arsenal hurt
Aston Villa's chances at finishing in the Top Four, but they are certainly not out of the race.
Martin O'Neill's side rebounded quickly and beat
Blackburn Rovers in both the
FA Cup and
Carling Cup. Because of these performances, O'Neill will likely keep the same formation as he attempts to route an injury-plagued West Ham United. O'Neill will only have to deal with the injuries of
Davies and
Bouma. Sitting just 3 points behind 4th place Manchester City, the Villains know they must win this in order to help their chances at a Top Four finish. Villains are 6-2-2 at home and should perform well here against West Ham's poor back line.
Gianfranco Zola's faces a selection nightmare as his entire squad of senior strikers are out with injury. His last hope,
Guillermo Franco, was injured in training while serving a one match ban. This is not good news for the Hammers, who are currently tied on points with for the relegation zone and are only placed 16th by a one goal difference. With just one win on the road this year, West Ham will have to create some magic to break a strong
Aston Villa back line. This will be hard with the number of injuries that include: Franco, Gabbidon, Dyer, Cole, Davenport, Boa Morte and Ilunga. Without any formidable threat in the attack, the Hammers will face a long 90 minutes at Villa Park.
Aston Villa have much motivation to get back on track to be in contention for a top four finish. The team is coming off consecutive Carling Cup and FA Cup wins and will be in high spirits for Sunday's match.
West Ham lost their last 2 matches (both derbies) against Arsenal and Tottenham and will be in poor spirits as they travel to the north. Expect an easy 3 points for the Villains.
Aston Villa vs West Ham United
Sunday January 17, 2009
Kickoff: 14:30 CET
Venue: Villa Park (Birmingham)
Tip: Aston Villa -1 (Asian Handicap)
Best Odds: 1.90 @ Interwetten
