Wigan remained in the relegation zone as they were hammered by Arsenal at the Emirates, so this is clearly a must-win game for the Latics. Darren Bent made an instant impact for Villa as he scored the winner against Manchester City, with Villans hoping to record successive victories only second time this season.

Wigan in precarious position

Wigan found themselves in the relegation zone from the very start of the season and rarely did the Latics leave the bottom three, proving they are one of the main candidates for the drop. Roberto Martinez’s team embarked on a good run of results at the end of last year but that proved short lived as they soon returned to where they belong. Wigan failed to win any of their last four home games, so they don’t have much reason for hope against revived Aston Villa, especially after the 3:0 defeat at the Emirates served as a new blow to the players’ confidence. The hosts desperately need a win to boost their survival hopes and boss Martinez could field Franco Di Santo alongside Hugo Rodallega in an attempt to cure team’s scoring problems.

With Gary Caldwell serving the first of his three-match ban, Emerson Boyce is likely to partner Steven Caldwell in the heart of defence, whereas James McCarthy could return to the starting line-up following the lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Darren Bent already paying off

Aston Villa chiefs have come under intense scrutiny when they decided to splash the cash on Darren Bent, although they seem to have won the first round considering it was the former Sunderland striker who brought Villa much needed points against Manchester City. There is no doubt the victory over title contenders will serve as a major confidence boost for the players before the Wigan game and the visitors could be forgiven for believing they can win this game. With new signing Jean II Makoun also available for selection, Gerard Houllier will be able to field stronger side than in any of the games this season and that could easily produce results. With Bent, Agbonlahor, Ashley Young and Stuart Downing, Villa now boast one of the best attacking departments in the league.

Jean II Makoun should start the game with Marc Albrighton dropping to the bench and that is likely to be the only change to the team that beat Manchester City.

Verdict

Wigan are largely struggling this season and they are far from convincing at home, meaning they are likely to have big problems against very good Villa side. The morale boosting victory was just what Aston Villa needed to kick-start this season and I honestly believe they have what it takes to win this game. Just to be safe, you should back Villa at level ball handicap, meaning your stake will be refunded if the game ends in draw.

Our prediction: Aston Villa to win with 0:0 Asian handicap

Odds: 1.67 (2/3)

Bookmaker: Victor Chandler