Walsall vs Aston Villa: Preview, predictions and lineups

Aston Villa begin their preparations for a 2024/25 season which will include Champions League football when they battle Walsall on Wednesday night.

The Villans finished fourth in the Premier League under Unai Emery last term and have been one of the more active teams in the summer transfer so far, losing key midfielder Douglas Luiz but bringing in Ian Maatsen, Ross Barkley, Enzo Barrenechea and Samuel Iling-Junior among others.

Their upcoming opponents reside in League Two and finished 11th last season.

Here's 90min's preview of Villa's clash with Walsall.

What time does Walsall vs Aston Villa kick-off?

Walsall vs Aston Villa H2H Record (All Time)

• Walsall: 1 win

• Aston Villa: 2 wins

• Draws: 3

Current Form (all competitions)

Walsall team news

Walsall have signed David Okague from Stoke City on a two-year deal, while goalkeeper Tommy Simkin has also arrived from the Potters on loan. Both may hope to feature on Wednesday alongside free transfers Connor Barrett, Josh Gordon and Charlie Lakin.

Walsall predicted lineup vs Aston Villa (5-3-2): Simkin; Barrett, Williams, Okagbue, Farquharson, L. Gordon; Stirk, Lakin, Earing; J. Gordon, Matt.

Aston Villa team news

The Villans made early moves in the summer transfer window, selling midfielder Luiz to Juventus while bolstering their squad with some smart arrivals.

Maatsen ended up in the Netherlands' squad and, while he didn't get a minute of game time at Euro 2024, won't feature on Wednesday. Copa America winner Emiliano Martinez will also be given a few weeks off with Jhon Duran, Ollie Watkins, Youri Tielemans, Ezri Konsa and John McGinn also absent after their international excursions.

Aston Villa predicted lineup vs Walsall

Aston Villa predicted lineup vs Walsall (4-4-2): Olsen; Kesler-Hayden, Torres, Hause, Digne; Rogers, Barkley, Barrenechea, Ramsey; Archer, Dobbin.

Villa manager Emery has some fresh faces to blood into his team and Wednesday night will likely be the first time fans get a view of new arrivals ahead of the exciting new season.

The sale of Luiz is undoubtedly a huge blow and the early stages of pre-season will show supporters how the side plan to move forward without the Brazilian midfielder.

However, they shouldn't have too many issues breezing past a Walsall side that ended the 2023/24 campaign in League Two mid-table obscurity.