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Players to Watch - Aston Villa
Kevin Phillips is showing all the potential to be a snip at only £750k. Purchased from Southampton during the summer is showing signs of forging a good understanding with Juan Pablo Angel and that his sharpness in front of goal is returning. Phillips ended up top scorer for the saints last year but villa fans will be hoping for the type of returns he regularly had for Sunderland.
Martin Laursen was signed for £3 million last summer from AC Milan however his Villa career has hardly got off the ground with him missing from late August to early March through a knee injury. He was sent home from Villa's recent tour of Sweeden with fears this injury had returned but luckily these fears were proved wrong and shall be in the team on Tuesday. Martin shall be using this game to show DOL he is ready for premiership football again
Nobby Solano is the reigning Villa player of the year. Last season he scored 9 goals from midfield while having a major contribution with assists. His control and flair is adored by the Villa fans and it looks like Villa have finally replaced the Paul Merson role after a years of trying.
Walsall key preformers
Paul Smith shall be making his Walsall debut after his contract at Gillingham ran out on July 31st. After winning Gillingham's Player of the year awards at the end of last season Paul is a welcome addition to our team. It shall be interesting to see how he will fit into our system and whether he shall line up in midfield along with Simon Osborn or instead of.
Anthony Gerrard has had a steady pre-season but has yet to re-capture last seasons form. In the absense of Chris Westwood from the opening game of the season against Rotherham this shall be an excellent test to the partnership of himself and Julian Bennett ahead of the big kick off. Last season Gerrard showed great voice in the Saddlers back line and this has to return.
Paul Merson is a certainty to play a role in this friendly. He is still adored by the Villa fans and will love every second of the reception he will recieve from them.
What are the villa fans likely to sing?
Merson for ENGLAND!
Where is our £20 million Doug?
Prediction
In friendly matches the result doesn't really matter. Its the preparation for the first game of the season that's the important thing. Walsall have a great record in this fixture over the last few years although i would be happy with a draw or to keep it within 2 goals. But of course im going for a Walsall win! 3-1 with goals from Wright, Leitao and Matty off the bench