United look to return to winning ways with visit of Villa

Manchester United return to Premier League action as they welcome Dean Smith’s Aston Villa to Old Trafford.

Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s side come into the clash on the back of a 3-3 draw at Sheffield United last weekend, despite leading 3-2 with just minutes remaining.

As for Villa, they secured a crucial three points on Monday evening, beating Newcastle United 2-0 at Villa Park under the cameras.

It has been a poor start to the season for United, collecting just 17 points from their opening 13 games, which sees them go into the clash in 11th.

Villa’s return to the Premier League has seen them pick up 14 points to date, four points clear of safety.

Team News

Manchester United are set to welcome back a host of first team players after making 11 changes against Astana in the Europa League.

Scott McTominay could return from an ankle injury, while Paul Pogba remains sidelined with an ankle injury.

As for Villa, Bjorn Engels could return after recovering from a hip injury, but Jota continues to build up his fitness after being out with a hip injury.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer knows  the importance of getting players back fit:

“We’ve got players coming back. We’ve suffered from injuries badly and now we’re getting more and more back that will only help us.”

Dean Smith knows the challenge awaiting his side this weekend:

“You’re playing against top talent in this league and if you stop concentrating you’ll concede goals.

“The next thing for me is when we’re playing against some of these big teams and we take the lead and go on to win it, when we do that it’ll give everyone that belief we can do it and stand toe-to-toe with these clubs.”

Head-to-head

Manchester United wins – 85

Draws – 38

Aston Villa wins– 38