Steve Bruce takes charge of Villa for the first time against their West Midlands rivals – here’s how you can watch it live.
Steve Bruce
Aston Villa’s change in the dugout has added an extra layer of intrigue to the 122nd meeting between themselves and local rivals Wolves, with Steve Bruce the latest man tasked with trying to inspire a change of fortunes for the beleaguered hosts.
While Villa have won just once in the league all season and are down in 19th, Wolves have been plagued by inconsistency and lie 12th with four wins and four defeats included in their opening 11 games.
The Key Battle – Jonathan Kodjia vs Danny Batth
Championship record signing Kodjia has impressed for Villa to date without being prolific, having found the net just once. He will be desperate to impress his new boss, but Wolves skipper Batth will relish the challenge of keeping the Ivory Coast international at bay.
Aston Villa’s Jonathan Kodjia shoots at goal
Last Meeting:
The last time these two sides met was in the Premier League at Molineux back in January 2012. It was a five-goal thriller which Villa edged 3-2 thanks to a brace from loanee Robbie Keane and one from Darren Bent.
Overall, Villa have won this fixture 53 times, Wolves have come away with the points on 37 occasions and there have been 31 draws.
Robbie Keane
Recent form – most recent last:
Aston Villa – DDDDDL
Wolves – DLWWLL
Who’s the ref?
Nottinghamshire-based David Coote will be the man in the middle. The experienced Football League official has taken control of 11 matches so far this season, awarding 32 yellow cards and one red in the process.
What time is kick off?
The game begins at 5.30pm.
General view of Villa Park
Where can I watch it?
Catch the match on Sky Sports 1, with coverage getting underway at 5.15pm.
Odds:
Aston Villa – 10/11
Draw – 12/5
Wolves – 16/5
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
