Paul Merson has predicted the winner of this evening’s Premier League clash between Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Unai Emery’s side are looking for their first top-flight victory since the away win over Luton Town on 2 March.
The home side have been boosted by the return to training of Jacob Ramsey, who looks set to be reinstated into the first-team fold after being forced off at Kenilworth Road.
Wolves also have several injury concerns as they make the short 12-mile trip south, and Merson has claimed the away side could suffer as a result.
What has Paul Merson said about Aston Villa v Wolves today?
In his weekly predictions for Sportkeeda, the 56-year-old has suggested the absence of Hwang Hee-Chan and Pedro Neto could severely impact the visitors.
“Gary O’Neil’s time in charge of Wolves has been quite a ride. Despite their FA Cup loss against Coventry, there is a sense of optimism at the club,” he said.
“Wolves rely heavily on their front three and if those three are not playing well, it’s like the bite gets taken out of the wolf. If Pedro Neto, Matheus Cunha and Hwang Hee-Chan are all available, they could cause serious trouble.”
Merson added: “All three players are doubtful to feature in this game and are likely to miss out. Without their most lethal players, Wolves are not going to be at their best in the final third this weekend. Aston Villa have been impressive this season and could take Wolves to the cleaners on Saturday.
Matheus Cunha has returned to training and is set to feature on Saturday evening; the Brazilian has been a standout performer during the 2023/24 season, scoring nine goals and registering six assists.
Wolves injury situation, per Ben Dinnery’s [Premier Injuries]:
- Ruled out, Pedro Neto
- Ruled out, Hwang Hee-Chan
- 25% chance, Craig Dawson
- 25% chance, Jean-Ricner Bellegarde
- 100% fit, Matheus Cunha
Neto and Hwang are key attacking cogs for O’Neil and will be sorely missed. There’s an opportunity for Emery’s side to earn a much-needed clean sheet and right the wrongs that occurred in the previous Villa Park loss to Tottenham Hotspur.
