Villa's Injury List Threatens to Spoil their Recent Dominance over Brighton
Brighton will host Aston Villa at the American Express Stadium in their Premier League opener on Sunday, August 23. The Seagulls return to domestic action after a goalless Conference League play-off first leg against Tromso just days prior.
Aston Villa arrive off the back of a Europa League triumph last season but have lost several key players through injury. This has forced changes in their lineup, with Tammy Abraham sidelined and Ollie Watkins set to lead the line despite ongoing questions over his future.
Brighton's defensive record at home was crucial to last season's top-eight finish, but Aston Villa's recent grip on this fixture keeps it close. The visitors have won three matches against Brighton in all competitions, with Watkins scoring in six of his last nine appearances against the Seagulls.