Aston Villa vs Tottenham preview: Spurs hoping to avoid Europa League hangover to maintain title charge

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture between Aston Villa and Tottenham at Villa Park.

Mauricio Pochettino and Harry Kane (Reuters)

It’s a big game for:

Micah Richards: The Villa captain suffered heavy criticism for his individual performance in the 4-0 defeat to City last week, and in particular for the mistake which lead to Sergio Aguero’s first goal. Having shipped in seven goals in the last two games, Villa’s defence desperately require Richard to display robust leadership skills against high-flying Spurs.

Best stat:

Harry Kane has scored 16 goals in his last 20 league appearances for Tottenham, two more than Aston Villa have managed in the same period.

Remember when:

Younes Kaboul completed an amazing comeback by Tottenham as they fought back from 4-1 down to hold Aston Villa 4-4.

Player to watch:

Harry Kane: Spurs’ talisman has been one of the standout performers this season and will fancy himself to find the back of the net against an Aston Villa side who are leaking goals for fun. With 55 goals conceded, Remi Garde’s side will struggle to keep Kane from adding to his impressive tally of 17 Premier League finishes.

Last three meetings:

Tottenham 3 (Dembele, Alli, Kane) Aston Villa 1 (Ayew), Premier League, November 2015

Tottenham 0 Aston Villa 1 (Benteke), Premier League, April 2015

Aston Villa 1 (Weimann) Tottenham 2 (Chadli, Kane), Premier League, November 2014

Form guide:

Aston Villa: LWLLLL

Tottenham: LWWLDL

Vital information:

KICK-OFF TIME: 4pm

TV: Highlights on Match of the Day 2 at 10.30pm