ASTON VILLA will resume the Premier League on June 17 with relegation a very real possibility.
The Villans are 19th in the table and two points from safety, but could be heading for the drop if they continue their disappointing run of form when the top-flight resumes.
It could be months before fans return to Villa ParkCredit: Getty Images – Getty
In a bid to build up fitness before competitive games return, a behind closed doors friendly with West Brom has reportedly been set up at Villa Park.
When is Aston Villa vs West Brom?
- The game is due to take place today (Saturday, June 6) at Villa Park.
- As with the new normal for matches, it will be played behind closed doors and without fans in attendance.
- Villa want to keep tabs on midfielder John McGinn’s condition ahead of the big restart.
- A kick-off time has not been confirmed by either club.
How can I watch watch the game online or on TV?
- Currently, there is no confirmed TV channel or live stream for the match.
- That could change closer to kick-off if the clubs decide to stream through their social media channels.
- SunSport will be on hand to update you if this occurs.
Why are they playing a friendly?
Sportsmail reported that West Brom will be taking two teams to Villa, with the intention of playing two one hour matches, with a staff member is set to referee.
The reason for the game is be used a competitive fitness exercise, while Villa want to keep tabs on midfielder John McGinn’s condition.
McGinn hasn’t played since a home defeat by Southampton on December 19 resulted in him damaging ankle ligaments.
Aston Villa face a fight to keep hold of John McGinn if they suffer relegation this season
West Brom are looking to get promoted this season and want to resume their push on June 20 when the Championship is set to restart.
This is also an opportunity to test the stadium biosecurity process as the Premier League is due to take place on June 17 at Villa Park when Sheffield United take on Villa.
The start of the season is only 11 days away and Villa need to be match fit and ready as they are due to take on Chelsea only four days after playing Sheffield Utd.
Team news
Tyrone Mings trained with Aston Villa yesterday, just hours after taking part in a Black Lives Matter protest in Birmingham city centre.
But the defender stuck to social distancing measures and is tested regularly, so will be expected to play today.
John McGinn has been out since December 21 with an ankle injury but should be a key player when the league restarts and is expected to get some minutes against the Baggies.
Wesley Moraes injured his anterior cruciate ligament against Burnley and the Premier League restart may come too soon for the striker.
Tom Heaton is also not expected to return just yet.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
