Aston Villa vs Sunderland: Tim Sherwood turns to Barcelona product Adama Traore as Sunderland seek first victory of the season
A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at Villa Park
It's a big game for…
Adam Traore: The £7m signing from Barcelona made his debut for Aston Villa last weekend as he came off the bench and played a huge part in his team's goal.
With just two goals scored in their opening three games, Villa are in desperate need of a consistent attacking threat, and with Traore likely to be given his first start for his new club, expect all eyes to be on the 19-year-old to provide it.
Best stat…
1: Sunderland’s strikers seem to have a torrid time when playing Aston Villa, as the Black Cats have only scored once in their last seven meetings with the men from the midlands.
Remember when…
A Stiliyan Petrov stunner was the highlight of this match, as both teams scored in the last five minutes to make for a dramatic finish to this 2-2 draw.
Player to watch…
Jermain Defoe: In an otherwise dismal start to the season, the 32-year-old has been the only source of optimism for Sunderland, with two goals to his name already. The Black Cats will need the experienced forward to continue this kind of form, starting against Villa, if they are to mount a serious attempt to remain a Premier League club.
Past three-meetings…
Sunderland 0 Aston Villa 4 (Benteke 2, Agbonlahor 2), Premier League, March 2015
Aston Villa 0 Sunderland 0, Premier League, December 2014
Sunderland 0 Aston Villa 1 (Agbonlahor), Premier League, January 2014
Form guide…
Aston Villa: LLLWLL
Sunderland: DDLLLD
Vital information…
KICK-OFF: 15.00
TV: Highlights on BBC1
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