Aston Villa blog: Massive derby could define whole season

They are the top side in the division this season and after watching them dismantle a very poor Leeds this week, I think that we really have to be on our game in this one.

When we went to the Molineux earlier in the season, we didn’t do ourselves any justice at all – in fact we were quite awful that night.

I’m hoping the memory of that game added to where we are in the league and the importance of getting a good result it will lead to us to having a real go at them today.

I know we possess more than enough quality to beat them and with a packed out Villa Park behind them I’m hoping for a win.

Should we not win the game then I’m still convinced all is not lost as we have plenty of points to play for especially in the next four game.

My preference to the team selection today would be the same back five that played against Sunderland with Jedinak and Hourihane in front and the hopefully fully fit trio of Grealish, Adomah and Snodgrass as the attacking threat.

However, it’s in the striking role that Steve Bruce has his biggest headache. While Scott Hogan has really shone playing as the lone striker role since Christmas, I think Lewis Grabban would just get the nod to start after three goals in three games.

It’s probably a bit harsh on Hogan, as he’s not done much wrong but this is a huge game and we need players who are in form and Grabban just pips him.

Whatever happens, we will still have a lot to play for but it will just be a lot easier with those extra three points tucked away.