After both competing in last weekend’s FA Cup ties, Aston Villa make the trip to the Amex Stadium to take on Brighton and Hove Albion – and with the end of the season nearing and European football in sight, this midweek clash could be a defining moment in the Premier League for both teams.
Since Fabian Hurzeler’s tough 7-0 loss to Nottingham Forest earlier in the season, his side have managed to pick up their form, unbeaten in their next eight matches.
This includes an impressive display in a 2-2 draw to Man City at the Etihad Stadium where they let the lead slip away from them twice.
Brighton will be hoping to move on from the recent FA Cup upset against Nottingham Forest, and get a positive away result pushing them closer to European spots.
With five straight victories in all competitions, Unai Emery’s side will be looking to build on their recent 3-0 win in the FA Cup against Preston, which secured them a place in the semi-finals at Wembley Stadium.
Marcus Rashford shined in their recent fixture picking up his first goal since joining on loan, shortly followed by another from the penalty spot as well as a goal from Jacob Ramsey, etching them closer their first major trophy in 29 years.
Aston Villa currently sit in ninth position, two points behind Brighton in 6th.
-
Team News
Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton have a total of eight players unavailable in the match due to injuries.
Defender Igor Julio remains unavailable until the end of the season after undergoing surger.
Adam Webster is also sidelined after picking up a hamstring strain during their FA Cup fixture.
As well as this, Ferdi Kadioglu, James Milner, Joe Veltman will all also remain unavailable for the game.
Amadou Onana looks to be back from injury, and we could see him start for the first time since, seeing him partner his international teammate Youri Tielemans in midfield.
Ross Barkley is still unavailable after suffering a calf injury earlier on in the season and isn’t expected to return anytime soon.
-
Likely Line-ups
Brighton & Hove Albion (4-2-3-1)
Verbruggen; Hinselwood, Van Hecke, Dunk, Estupinan; Baleba, Gomez; Minteh, Pedro, Mitoma; Welbeck
Aston Villa (4-2-3-1)
Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Mings, Digne; Onana, Tielemans; Rogers, Asensio, Rashford; Watkins
-
Key Players
Brighton & Hove Albion – Joao Pedro
Despite a challenging first season adapting to the Premier League, João Pedro has emerged as Brighton’s most dynamic attacking threat. His ability to play across the front line gives Fabian Hurzeler’s side tactical flexibility, and his combination of close control, quick footwork, and clinical finishing makes him a constant danger in the final third.
The Brazilian forward will be crucial as Brighton prepare for their next test against Villa - a team that press high and leave space in behind. His movement and ability to exploit defensive gaps could be key for Hurzeler's side.
With Brighton’s attacking style built around fluid movement and quick transitions, Pedro is expected to be at the heart of their offensive play.
Aston Villa – Marco Asensio
Since Joining Aston Villa on loan in January Marcos Asensio has contributed in a significant way to the side with seven goals in his last nine appearances in all competitions, with his impact being crucial in bringing a new dimension to their attacking play.
Marco Asensio’s versality and experience gives him the ability to play multiple roles across the attacking line whether he is a winger, attacking midfielder or false 9.
As Villa prepares to face Brighton, Asensio could well be the different maker in exploiting the Seagulls' backline through chance creation.
-
Match details
Where is the game being played?
The match will be at the Amex Stadium.
What time is kick-off?
Kick-off is at 19:45 GMT on Wednesday April 2nd 2025.
How can I watch?
The game has unfortunately not been selected for live television coverage in the UK.
