Aston Villa (3-1-2) started their season strong, but after two straight losses they are looking at a continued tough run against last year’s top five.
With both Ron Vlaar and Christian Benteke out injured, Paul Lambert is still missing a full strength side. Although their defense has had good moments, without Vlaar they are slipping.
Manchester City (3-2-1) battled strongly against AS Roma during midweek, but Manuel Pellegrini’s side should bounce back against the Villans at Villa Park.
Samir Nasri and Fernando both remain out for the visiting side, but there should be no reason why the Citizens cannot emerge victorious this weekend.
Projected Lineups
Aston Villa XI: Guzan: Hutton, Baker, Senderos, Cissokho; Weimann, Cleverly, Westwood, Delph, Richardson; Agbonlahor.
Manchester City XI: Hart: Zabaleta, Kompany, Mangala, Kolarov; Milner, Toure, Fernandinho, Silva; Dzeko, Aguero.
