Aston Villa will be playing host to Leeds United on Friday night as the Whites look to keep their unbeaten streak in 2023 going with a good result at Villa Park on Friday night.
Jesse Marsch's men have drawn their last three matches in all competitions, including fighting for a well-earned point at St. James' Park against high-flyers Newcastle United.
Villa, on the other hand, have enjoyed an up-and-down beginning to the year after their shock F.A Cup upset loss to Stevenage last week.
READ MORE: 'Poised' - Jesse Marsch sends Aston Villa warning ahead of Leeds United's Premier League clash
Here's what the pundits had to say this week about the clash between Leeds United and Aston Villa at Villa Park...
Paul Merson
The former Villa midfielder told SportsKeeda : "I couldn't really believe Aston Villa's result against Stevenage last week - it was a kick in the teeth. I thought they'd turned a corner and were doing really well.
"If they'd beaten Stevenage, they would've had a very good cup run. Unai Emery's a good manager and tactician, and I think he'll take Aston Villa forward in the long run.
"This is a good game for Emery. Leeds are very open and will have a go, and Aston Villa are decent going forward. I think Aston Villa will back themselves to win this game."
Merson's prediction: Aston Villa 3-1 Leeds United
Chris Sutton
In his prediction for BBC Sport, Sutton said: "Aston Villa had an absolute shocker against Stevenage in the FA Cup. I know Unai Emery made lots of changes, but that defeat really takes the shine off what had been a decent start for him as manager.
"Leeds were lucky not to go the same way thanks to a late fightback against Cardiff and Jesse Marsch was very critical of his players afterwards.
So, both teams will be looking for a reaction and I am very tempted to go with a draw. I am going to say Villa will edge it, though, because I am still not sure Leeds can hurt teams no matter how hard they try."
Sutton's prediction: Aston Villa 2-1 Leeds United
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