Aston Villa and West Ham United meet at Villa Park as both sides begin their FA Cup journey in the third round. This marks their first meeting in the competition since 1980 where West Ham went on to lift the trophy. Villa will look to build on recent success as they go against a very troubled side in West Ham, but the hammers may improve under new management.
Aston Villa extended their unbeaten home run in the Premier League to ten matches last weekend with a 2-1 victory over Leicester City. Leon Bailey's goal not only ended his scoring drought but also put Villa at eighth on the table keeping them in contention for European qualification. Despite their league success, Villa have struggled in the FA Cup in recent years. After losing seven straight third round ties between 2017 and 2023 they ended that streak last season with a win over Middlesbrough. However, Villa have suffered six consecutive home defeats in the competition, a streak they hope to end while celebrating their 150th anniversary in a special all black kit.
Meanwhile, West Ham enter the game amid chaos. Julen Lopetegui was dismissed earlier this week after overseeing just six league wins during his time, putting the Hammers in 14th place. A crushing 4-1 loss to Manchester City last weekend following a 5-0 thrashing by Liverpool, marked the end of his stint. New manager Graham Potter has taken charge of a defensively broken team with West Ham conceding nearly two goals per game this season, the worst record outside the promoted teams. They are however clear of relegation trouble but their form leaves much to be desired and their FA Cup exit to Bristol City last year continues to haunt them.
Aston Villa face some injury problems with captain John McGinn joining Pau Torres and Diego Carlos on the sidelines. Jhon Duran serves the final match of a three game ban meaning Ollie Watkins will continue to lead the line.
West Ham are similarly plagued by absences. Jarrod Bowen’s fractured foot and Michail Antonio’s recovery from a car crash leave Niclas Fullkrug as their main attacking option. Emerson Palmieri remains doubtful while Lukasz Fabianski is sidelined with concussion.
Aston Villa possible lineup: Martinez; Bogarde, Konsa, Mings, Maatsen; Barkley, Onana; Bailey, Buendia, Ramsey; Watkins
West Ham United possible lineup: Areola; Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Kilman, Cresswell; Soucek, Rodriguez; Kudus, Paqueta, Summerville; Fullkrug
ASTON VILLA VS WEST HAM
2.50
TOTAL, OVER 3.5
