Nobody could imagine that newly promoted Villarreal and last year’s relegation strugglers Espanyol would be unbeaten after five rounds, but the reality is the two sides are currently battling for top 4 positions.

While they were somewhat fortunate to win their opening fixture against Almeria, the Yellow Submarine fully deserved back to back wins against Real Valladolid and Osasuna.

That meant they entered the derby game with Real Madrid full of confidence and the 2-2 draw was no more than they deserved for another impressive display.

Villarreal have since extended their unbeaten record to five games as they held Celta Vigo to a goalless draw, thus climbing to the fourth position in the standings.

With Espanyol next, the Yellow Submarine are 1.75 (3/4) favourites with Ladbrokes to return to winning ways at their El Madrigal.

Apart from long-term casualty Francisco Javier Farinos, boss Marcelino Garcia Toral has absolutely no selection problems at the moment.

Probable starting line-up (4-4-2): Asenjo – Mario, Musacchio, Dorado, Jaume Costa – Aquino, Bruno, Trigueros, Cani – Pereira, Dos Santos.

After the dismal start to the league campaign almost saw them relegated last term, Espanyol were determined to begin rightly this season.

The opening 2-2 draw at Celta Vigo appeared to be a step in the right direction, but 10 points from next four games ensured the team enjoyed one of their best starts ever.

While sharing spoils with Real Betis, los Periquitos defeated Valencia, Granada and Athleti Bilbao, but no doubt they face a difficult task against in-form Villarreal.

Even so, there may be some value in backing Espanyol to continue their unbeaten run, at odds of 2.15 (23/20) offered at William Hill.

Starting full-back Juan Fuentes has picked up a muscle injury and he is definitely out, while Hector Moreno is doubtful with a thigh problem.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Casilla – J. Lopez, Colotto, Moreno, Capdevilla – V. Sanchez, D. Lopez – Stuani, Pizzi, Simao – Garcia.

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