Premier League: Villa can add to Rangnick's troubles

A highlight of the Premier League season so far for Aston Villa was an impressive 1-0 win at Manchester United back in September and the pair are preparing to do battle once again at Villa Park.

United managed to edge an FA Cup third-round meeting with Steven Gerrard’s side last time out, but the West Midlands outfit might well be able to take something for Saturday’s league showdown on home soil.

United falling off the pace

After overcoming a spell which saw them go three games without a win in the Premier League, and spelled the end of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s tenure, United looked to have got their campaign back on track with wins over Arsenal, Crystal Palace and Norwich City.

However, a draw with Newcastle and defeat to Wolves at Old Trafford has seen the Red Devils fall to seventh place in the standings going into the weekend’s games, with United now 27% in our market to finish in the top four this season.

Interim boss Ralf Rangnick confirmed in his Friday press conference that United will welcome back Cristiano Ronaldo, Harry Maguire and Phil Jones who all missed the FA Cup win over the Villans.

Goals have been an issue for United, as their side brimming with attacking stars has only managed eight in their last seven outings in all competitions.

An over-reliance on Ronaldo after his arrival was seen as a potential cause for concern and it seems that has come to fruition in recent weeks.

This might well be another low-scoring game and under 2.5 goals is available at 1.99.

New arrivals can further boost Villans

Villa have shown real intent in the January transfer market with the signings of midfielder Philippe Coutinho and defender Lucas Digne.

It doesn’t look like the West Midlands outfit are finished there either, with Villa now at 42% to finish in the Premier League’s top 10 this season.

Gerrard confirmed to reporters on Friday that both Coutinho and Digne are available for selection and are “in a good place” ahead of Saturday’s showdown with United.

Both players look likely to feature at some point, and Coutinho to score anytime against the Red Devils is available at 4.5.

Coutinho has scored against United in the Champions League and Europa League, but could open his domestic account against the Old Trafford outfit this weekend.

Villa can add to points tally

The two clashes between Villa and United have shown this might well be another tight affair.

Gerrard has admitted he was frustrated his side lacked a ruthless edge in their 1-0 cup defeat and it’s an area they will be determined to improve on at Villa Park.

With the advantage of playing at home, and the injection of quality from the club’s new signings, Villa as a double chance at 1.57 might be the way to go in this one.

Recommended bets

Under 2.5 goals at 1.99

Coutinho anytime goalscorer at 4.5

Aston Villa double chance at 1.57