Aston Villa host Brentford today, looking to bounce back from their 4-1 humiliation to Manchester City on Wednesday evening.
Unai Emery caught Pep Guardiola’s side in frightening form as Phil Foden demonstrated why he’s currently among the best players on the planet.
Villa must put their midweek disappointment quickly behind them ahead of what is a must-win against the Bees.
The hosts have been mightily impressive at Villa Park – and Chris Sutton has now had his say on how he sees proceedings playing out.
Chris Sutton backs ‘dangerous’ Aston Villa gem to star v Brentford
In his weekly BBC Sport predictions, Sutton said: “Brentford were quite pragmatic in their draw with Brighton in midweek but I don’t blame Bees boss Thomas Frank for that approach.
“He is trying to stay in the Premier League, so every point is crucial and they now have a six-point advantage over third-bottom Luton, plus a much better goal difference.
“I still think Brentford need another win before the end of the season to make absolutely sure of staying up and they will get it… but I don’t think it will come here, despite Aston Villa’s injury problems.”
The former Celtic striker has also backed Jhon Duran to continue his good recent form and cause “problems” today.
“Villa striker Ollie Watkins is still a doubt with the hamstring injury that kept him out against City on Wednesday, but Jhon Duran did well at the Etihad Stadium, and he will cause Brentford problems too.”
Aston Villa: Will Jhon Duran start against Brentford today?
Duran has slowly been introduced into first-team football at Villa Park. The‘dangerous’ forward found the back of the net against City and is a viable option if Ollie Watkins misses out.
Watkins sat out Wednesday evening’s fixture, and there is still doubt over his involvement against the Bees. Emery has suggested that the 28-year-old will be fit enough to make the squad, but questions remain over his ability to start.
“Emi Martinez and Ollie Watkins, they could play tomorrow,” Emery said. “We will prepare the match. Tomorrow we will know if they are available and ready to play. They will both be in the squad.”
If the England international doesn’t feature, Duran has the perfect opportunity to further showcase his developing talent. The visit of Brentford certainly provides him with a much easier task than midweek.
The post Chris Sutton says 'dangerous' Aston Villa gem will cause Brentford 'problems' today appeared first on Aston Villa News.