Aston Villa situation

Aston Villa have struggled for consistency recently. The team has won only three of their last ten Premier League matches and lost 0–2 to Wolverhampton Wanderers in the previous round.

Villa have scored just five goals in their last eight league games, showing clear attacking issues.

The squad also has several absences:

• Boubacar Kamara – out for the season

• Youri Tielemans – injured

• John McGinn – expected back mid-March

However, Villa have one advantage — five full days of preparation. At home they usually play more organized football defensively.

Chelsea situation

Chelsea FC have also struggled for consistency.

They have collected only two points from their last three league matches:

• Draw vs Leeds United

• Draw vs Burnley FC

• Defeat vs Arsenal

A key issue has been losing points late in matches.

Squad problems

• Wesley Fofana returns from suspension

• Pedro Neto suspended

• Jamie Gittens and Estevao Willian injured

Head-to-head

Matches between these teams are usually open and high-scoring.

• The last five meetings produced over two goals

• Both teams scored in four of those five matches

Aston Villa have also remained unbeaten in seven of the last nine meetings.

Prediction

The match is expected to be fast-paced and open.

Most likely outcomes:

• Both teams to score – 70%

• Draw – 30%