Preview: Aston Villa vs. Chelsea - Team news and prediction.

Aston Villa has kicked into high gear for the top 4 and Champions League spots, and with 2 consecutive wins, they are currently six points ahead of Tottenham, who, however, have 2 games in hand. Chelsea delivered a disastrous performance away to Arsenal, losing 5-0, and the question is whether they can bounce back or if the players have mentally checked out for the season.

It's going to be a high-scoring match. Aston Villa's offense is flying high while Chelsea have significant defensive problems. Cole Palmer is rumored to be back in the squad, which could give Chelsea's offense a boost. If you believe in many goals, you can currently get odds of 1.44 on over 2.5 goals at Bet365. If you predict over 3.5 goals, Betway is offering odds of 2.10.

Team news: 
Aston Villa has several injuries and will, for example, be without Ramsey, Buendia, Mings, and Kamara. Zaniolo is doubtful, and it's uncertain whether he will recover from his muscle injury.

Chelsea's injury list is long, but they can take comfort in the return of Cole Palmer to the squad after dealing with illness during the week.

Aston Villa expected lineup:
Martinez, Digne, Torres, Konsa, Cash; Tielemans, McGinn, Rogers, Diaby, Bailey; Watkins. 

Chelsea expected lineup: 
Petrovic, Gusto, Silva, Badiashile, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez, Gallagher; Palmer, Jackson, Madueke. 

Prediction: 
The motivation and form difference between the two teams are significant, and therefore, we consider Aston Villa as favorites. The home advantage and the possibility of Champions League qualification should result in motivated players, so we suggest betting on Aston Villa to win the match at odds of 2.20 at Bet365. 

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