Aston Villa vs Stoke City
English Carabao Cup
Date: Thursday, 1 October 2020
Kick-Off at 19.00 UK
Venue: Villa Park, Birmingham.
Match preview
After being given a break longer than many other teams in the Premier League, Villa seem to be reaping the benefits they continue to play at a high level.
Dean Smith's side have yet to face this kind of missions that will determine if they are ready for the next level, with their victory over Sheffield United ahead after their opponents received a card early red.
Nevertheless, overcome Burton Albion, Blades, Bristol City and Fulham in quick succession has naturally raised the level of expectations in the West Midlands.
Each of their big-money additions have air settled into the team, especially Emiliano Martinez kept back to back clean sheets since joining Arsenal.
While it remains early days, Smith will be eager to see if the second chain can maintain the momentum of the club against a Stoke outfit that has one of the best defensive records in the country.
Potters have kept five clean sheets in six games this season, the only ones they have conceded goals coming in the seconds before the time of half and full-time against Bristol City.
Michael O'Neill will be much more demanding for his part in the final third at a time when only three strikes were deducted during the same period.
However, Stoke showed against Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this month that they are able to wear opponents better before enjoying in the closing stages.
The two clubs will take into account this result in the preparation of this competition over Stoke who will be motivated to extend their unbeaten run against Villa in six games.
Team News
Following an excellent display in the previous round at Bristol City Dean Smith is likely to reward the same starting lineup, which means 11 changes will be made to the league win over Fulham on Monday.
Ahmed Elmohamady filled the center-back at Ashton Gate, while Bertrand Traore registered a goal and will start after a brief delay in onset for his league debut at Craven Cottage.
Midfielder teen Jacob Ramsey also made his Premier League debut for Villa bench Monday and will again have the chance to impress in the cup.
Stoke continue to be without Joe Allen and Thibaud Verlinden for their clash with Villa Carabao Cup, but the approach to the game having won twice.
Youngster Nathan Collins started the two cup games so far in the back of Michael O'Neill and three is vying for a starting with Bruno Martins Indi and James Chester, the latter may be willing to face his former club.
The likes of Sam Clucas and John Obi Mikel were rested in the cup now and potters probably call a young midfield trio again.
Aston Villa vs Stoke City Preview
Aston Villa began their journey Cup Carabao there are three weeks on the road against Burton Albion. The first test was more than successful, win the game easily 3-1 FT. Jack Grealish shown once high quality, scoring a goal and providing assistance.
The most recent acquisition Ollie Watkins scored the first goal in the second round against Bristol City in a 3-0 win. At the time of writing this preview Aston Villa has not played their second EPL match against Fulham FC on Monday night.
It is really hard to tell what to expect from Stoke City in the coming months. The team is currently sitting in 15th place in the championship after collecting four points from three matches. The most recent form does not look bad at all, but with narrow 1-0 wins against Gillingham and Preston North End.
As guests are more likely to mix the starting lineup, we expect a low scoring affair at Villa Park. Under 2.5 FT is our first recommendation, coupled with a draw as the value bet.
Aston Villa vs Stoke City Betting Tips
Under 2.5 goals @ 2.05
Draw @ 3.60.
