The Premier League returns on Wednesday after a break of exactly 100 days due to the coronavirus pandemic, with Aston Villa and Sheffield United sharing the honour of being the first teams back in action.
Villa, who were also involved in the last top-flight game before lockdown, head into their final 10 outings hoping to steer clear of the relegation zone, whereas Sheffield United have their sights set on earning European football.
One of two rescheduled games before the league as a whole restarts, this fixture was initially set to be played at the end of February but had to be delayed due to Aston Villa’s participation in the Carabao Cup final – which they lost 2-1 to Manchester City.
But with all eyes now firmly on the Premier League, Aston Villa must turn their attention to their fight for survival. Dean Smith‘s side are currently 19th with 10 games remaining, but can jump out of the relegation zone into 16th if they beat Sheffield United.
However, the Blades have history in their sights.
After gaining promotion from the Championship last season, Chris Wilder‘s men are seventh in the Premier League and chasing European football for the first time in the club’s 130-year history.
A win over Villa would see Sheffield United leapfrog Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester United into fifth, taking control of the Europa League race – although fifth could also mean Champions League football if Manchester City‘s ban is upheld.
Aston Villa vs Sheffield Utd kick-off time and details
Competition: Premier League
Venue: Villa Park
Date: Wednesday, 17 June 2020
Kick-off: 6:00 PM (UK time)
Where to watch Aston Villa vs Sheffield Utd on TV
TV coverage (UK): Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League
TV coverage (US): NBCSN
Aston Villa possible starting lineup:
Reina; Guilbert, Engels, Mings, Targett; McGinn, Hourihane, Douglas Luiz; Al Ghazi, Samatta, Grealish.
Sheffield United possible starting lineup:
Henderson; Basham, Egan, O’Connell; Baldock, Lundstram, Norwood, Fleck, Stevens; Mousset, McBurnie.
Live Scorecard: