Statistical Preview: Aston Villa vs Southampton
Aston Villa entertain Southampton this weekend as they attempt to end a string of 4 consecutive Premier League defeats. Despite the 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, Villa had the majority of the possession but could not convert their chances upfront.
In the absence of star man Christian Benteke, Gabriel Agbonlahor is Aston Villa’s most accurate in front of goal. With 3 goals to his name this season, Agbonlahor has had 14 shots on target out of a possible 30; that’s an accuracy of 47%. With Benteke out for the rest of the season, he will be eager to show his attacking prowess and add to his season total.
The EA SPORTS Player Performance Index shows that Fabian Delph is Villa’s biggest attacking threat. Delph made 4 attacking contributions (shots on target, assists, dribbles and crosses) in his side’s 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, bringing his total attacking contributions for this season to 76. Villa fans will hope his creative influence can reignite their season.
Manager Paul Lambert and Villa fans alike will be counting on Karim El Ahmadi to provide a decisive defensive influence as his side attempt to contain the threat of England hopefuls Lallana and Lambert. The Moroccan has made 26 Premier League appearances this season and has won 89 out of a possible 116tackles this season; that’s a tackle accuracy of 77%.
Southampton keen to bounce back when they travel to Villa Park this weekend. The Saints failed to break down Cardiff’s deep defence and will feel hard done by with the final score. They are currently 8th in the Premier League; 9 points behind 7th place Manchester United. With England selection pressing ever closer, Southampton’s England hopefuls will be sure to put in an impressive performance.
Adam Lallana once again strengthened his claim for Brazil this summer; constantly threatening Cardiff’s defence. The England hopeful made 5 attacking contributions (shots on target, assists, dribbles and crosses). In addition the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index shows that he completed 37 passes in the opposition half. Fans will hope he continues to show this impressive form for both club and country.
Lambert was unlucky not to score against Cardiff last weekend. The forward had 2 shots on target out of a possible 5 giving him a 40% shot accuracy rating.
Saints’ fans will feel confident that Morgan Schneiderlin can handle the attacking threat of Aston Villa’s Delph and Agbonlahor this week. The EA SPORTS Player Performance Index shows that Schneiderlin has made 149 tackles this season, winning 108 in 30 Premier League appearances. He will be crucial in Southampton’s attempt to put last week’s shock defeat behind them.
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