Time to map out a plan for Villa's future
- Says blogger Matthew Turvey
Stoke v Aston Villa – preview
Friday 22nd August 2008, 8:55AM BST.
Can’t see video? Update Adobe Flash Player
Video may take a moment to load. Return to Video Index
Watch the video preview of the Premier League clash between Stoke and Aston Villa.
Stoke are likely to field at least two new players for their second Premier League match – their first at home.
Their debut in the top-flight was a tough one as they were outplayed by a competent Bolton Wanderers side last weekend, eventually going down 3-1.
Meanwhile, Villa, one of the more long-standing members of English football’s elite, were impressive on Sunday in beating Manchester City 4-2.
After a busy week in the transfer market, the Potters are likely to bring in their new £1.3million signing defender Andrew Davies, while Amdy Faye and Abdoulaye Faye could be given their first starts subject to the club receiving the necessary international clearance.
Villa’s new £7.8million defender Carlos Cuellar missed the opening day victory with a calf muscle strain and, if the Spaniard is fit, he is likely to replace Curtis Davies in the centre of defence.
Another new recruit, midfielder Steve Sidwell, has been hit with the same injury and is unlikely to recover in time.
Business Awards
Read the full story here
Full coverage of awards celebrating the region's best businesses.
Lifestyle
Interactive Dining Out map
Hundreds of reviews by the Express & Star and Shropshire Star's teams to help you decide where to eat.
LIVE traffic updates
Road, rail and airport - latest
Our new, live traffic and travel updates service - check before you set out.
OUR NEW APP
Get the new E&S app
Download the Express & Star’s new app to your iPad or iPhone to get one week of access to our digital newspapers absolutely FREE.
