Premier League: Aston Villa v West Brom match preview

A look ahead to this week’s Premier League fixture at Villa Park

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Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert looks on from the touchline (Matthew Lewis/Getty Images)

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West Brom travel to Aston Villa on Wednesday in the hope that they will put the Nicolas Anelka scandal behind them and move up the Premier League table. Anelka, who denies making a gesture that was “abusive and/or indecent and/or insulting and/or improper“ is unlikely to have his case heard until February.

In the meantime, his team face Aston Villa who sit only two points ahead in the Premier League. Villa are in dire need of a win at home, with their last victory at Villa Park occurring back in September. Although West Brom have been subjected to controversy in recent weeks, their on the field form has been almost identical to Villa’s, winning only won of their last four games. Before that win on New Year’s Day, the Baggies last win came at the start of November. Although not completely safe from relegation, both teams will be hoping to solidify their position in the league with a win tonight.

KICK-OFF: Wednesday, 7.45pm

PAST MEETINGS…

West Brom 2 (Long (2) Aston Villa 2 (El Ahmadi, Westwood), Premier League, November 2013

West Brom 2 (Brunt, Odemwingie) Aston Villa 2 (Benteke, Agbonlahor), Premier League, January 2013

Aston Villa 1 (Bent) West Brom 1 (Long), Premier League, September 2012

West Brom 0 Aston Villa 0, Premier League, April 2012

STATS…

Villa have scored just eight goals at Villa Park this season, fewer than any other team on home soil in the top flight

WBA have won only eight of 36 midlands derby games in Premier League history (D14 L14).

Aston Villa have committed more fouls than any other team in the Barclays Premier League (294).

West Brom have conceded a higher proportion of long range goals (28%) than any other side this season in the Barclays Premier League. side this season in the Barclays Premier League.

ODDS…

Aston Villa to win: 2.45

West Brom to win: 2.8

Draw: 3.4

TV: Highlights on BBC 1 at 10.35pm

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Premier League: Aston Villa v West Brom match preview

A look ahead to this week’s Premier League fixture at Villa Park

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