Premier League preview and odds: Aston Villa vs Southampton

Published on: 21/04/2016

Premier League preview and odds: Aston Villa vs Southampton

April 23 , 2016 15:00pm - Villa Park

Premier League

Already-relegated Aston Villa will have little left to play for but pride when they go up against a Southampton side who still have an outside chance of qualifying for Europe at Villa Park this weekend.

Villa down and out

Aston Villa`s 27-year run in the English top flight officially came to an end last weekend when they were beaten 1-0 by Manchester United at Old Trafford. After what has been a miserable season, the club must now prepare for life in the tough environment of the Championship.

The Midland club`s demise has come as no surprise as the club spent the majority of the season propping up the league table and showed no signs of recovery despite a mid-season change of management.

The Villains have lost their last five home games in a row, scoring just two goals in the process.

Saints stumbling at final hurdle

Southampton`s quest for European football was dealt a blow last weekend when they only managed to pick up a point away to Everton. That result left the Saints eight points adrift of fifth place with just four games left to play. Despite that setback, the South Coast club still has an outside chance of qualifying for Europe.

To stand any chance, the Saints will probably have to win all their remaining games while hoping that the teams above them collapse.

Team news

Libor Kozak and Jordan Amavi are both doubtful for the home side. Meanwhile, Florin Gardos is still out for Ronald Koeman`s team

Recent form (League)

Aston Villa: LLLLL

Southampton: DWLWW

Betting odds and tips

With relegation now confirmed, Villa may find that they can play without pressure in this game. However, Southampton will still be pushing hard to finish as high as possible and should have the quality to grab all three points.

The Away Win can be backed at 8/15 with Bet365.

By Neil Morris

Published on: 21/04/2016

Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (21/04/2016 13:42:16) but are subject to change.