COVID jeopardy for Burnley who visit Villa Park

Villa in fine fettle

Steven Gerrard's side have clawed their way into the top half after a shaky start to the season after former manager Dean Smith. Gerrard has overseen the Villains only lose to Man City and Liverpool in their last six games, winning the other four. This good run has allowed Villa to begin rebuilding towards the upper reaches of the table. And with the investments they've made post-Grealish, the results did have to come quite quickly. Last time out, Villa cruised to a 2-0 win at Carrow Road against Norwich. Dean Smith against his former employers wasn't able to overcome an impressive opening goal from youngster Jacob Ramsey and then Ollie Watkins to seal all three points for Villa. Ramsey's fellow academy graduate Carney Chukwuemeka set up the second goal for the visitors, but it was Jacob Ramsey's dominant performance that stole the headlines. His man of the match game saw him score his fifth senior goal on his 50th senior appearance in all competitions. Steven Gerrard will be particularly impressed with the 20 year old's recent output for his side. With Emi Buendia still trying to find his footing in this Villa setup, Ramsey's performances have been the creative spark that Villa have often lacked this season. Another key figure in their recent upturn in form has been England international Tyrone Mings. He was beginning to struggle last season and especially at the beginning of this Premier League season. But since Gerrard's arrival, he has thrived next to the under-rated Ezri Konsa at the back for Villa. With Emi Martinez behind this pair at the back has taken shape with Villa being defensively very solid under Gerrard. Leaking at the back was their downfall for much of Dean Smith's time, as you could never doubt their attacking intent. They will need to continue this defensive prowess against a physical Burnley outfit.

Burnley lagging behind

After having their game at home against Watford, in what would have been a relegation dogfight, called off due to rising COVID cases, Burnley are still behind every team other than Spurs on games played. With just one win from these fifteen games, Sean Dyche's side will be sweating going into Saturday's game. If the match even goes ahead, I fully expect Burnley to shut up shop and play for a draw. They've recorded eight draws in these games, scoring just fourteen goals. They've struggled massively to score goals, and have relied on their defensive solidarity, much like Aston Villa in that sense. Their utterly tedious 0-0 draw at home to West Ham on Sunday was the most Burnley game to ever happen. The centre back partnership of James Tarkowski and Ben Mee have been typically solid, being the absolute cornerstones of this Burnley team. Not exactly an advert for the Premier League, this game was an example of how defensively solid Sean Dyche's team can be. Setting up in two banks of four has worked for several years, but Burnley could be found out this season with their form being very poor on the whole. They need to get these cancelled games played if possible, and try and pick up some wins there if they're to be able to catch up with their relegation rivals.

This game looks destined to be low on goals. While I can see Aston Villa getting all three points, it won't be easy. That's why I'm sticking with the safer option of low goals, and under 2.5 goals with bet365.

Bet Under 2.5 goals on Bet365