Friday 1st December Kickoff 1945hrs Leeds United v Aston Villa Football – England – Championship A fixture between Leeds and Aston Villa were one of the staples of the Premier League calendar but it’s been a long time since that was the case. That should not detract, however, from the size and potential of these two clubs. Virtually everything is in place for both to return to that level off the park, but the main thing is having the players and team required on the park. That’s something which neither Leeds or Villa have been able to show on a consistent basis this term which is why they are 15 and nine points behind leaders Wolves, respectively. Nevertheless, Friday is an opportunity to gain crucial points for their promotion charges.
Losing Garry Monk in the close season was a massive blow for Leeds as their former manager had enjoyed an excellent campaign last season only to narrowly miss out on the playoffs. At that point the expectation was the club would build on that promise and challenge for automatic promotion but the change in management has impacted upon that. Thomas Christiansen has taken over and enjoyed a great start to his tenure which seen United go unbeaten in their first seven league games, winning five of them. Things dropped off quite markedly after that, however, as Leeds could only muster two wins in their next nine games. They have been boosted of late however with two wins in their last three, against Middlesbrough and Barnsley. They came either side of a thumping loss at Wolves but considering the nature of their victories, they should be buoyed to face Villa on Friday.
Villa were my picks to win the title this year before a ball was kicked but it appears fairly obvious that Steve Bruce’s men are unlikely to finish top of the pile ahead of Wolves, who have been excellent. Along with Boro and the leaders they have one of the biggest budgets in the division but that has not always translated on to the pitch. It was a stuttering start to the campaign as Aston Villa never won any of their first three leagues games, losing two of them. They actually managed just one win in seven Championship games but there are definite signs that things are improving as we approach a crucial stage of the season. A total of 28 points from a possible 36 have seen them climb the table into fourth spot and whilst they are a considerable distance behind Wolves, they are just five points behind second placed Cardiff. Games such as Friday can be pivotal in not only their quest for three points, but to continue the momentum and send out a message to others in what constitutes a huge game at this level.
Leeds United v Aston Villa Betting Tip
Although both have had their struggles this season, the two clubs come into this game in good form and having picked up a couple of impressive wins of late. Leeds home form has epitomised their inconsistencies as a whole with four wins and three defeats from their nine games. It’s a frustrating record considering they were so strong at Elland Road in the previous season. Villa have an identical record on their travels but they have won four of their last six away from home so are coming into this with a fair bit of confidence and form behind them.
Leeds got the better of Villa in this fixture 12 months ago, running out 2-0 winners, but they don’t seem as strong or as reliable as back then, and Villa have a squad packed full of experience that will relish this sort of environment. They may see a draw as a decent result, however, so select the double chance on the away team for some more insurance.
Aston Villa Double Chance 8/15 @ Bet365
