class=”article_teaser__2t5do”>Having finished the season on a high and strengthened their squad since, Goal is backing Dean Smith's men to start with a win over the Blades

Aston Villa will be hoping to get their Premier League season off to a winning start when they welcome Sheffield United to Villa Park on Monday.

The Villans’ scheduled opener against Manchester City was postponed due to their opponents’ involvement in the latter stages of the Champions League, meaning they sat out the first weekend’s curtain raisers.

Aston Villa vs Sheffield United latest odds

Aston Villa are available at 8/5 (2.60) with bet365 to make up for lost time by kicking things off with a victory on home turf.

Chris Wilder’s men were beaten 2-0 at home to Wolves in their opening clash but can be backed at 9/5 (2.80) to bounce back by coming out on top here.

The last three encounters between this duo at this ground have all resulted in draws, and you can get odds of 11/5 (3.20) on this one also finishing all square.

Aston Villa vs Sheffield United team news

New signings Ollie Watkins, Emiliano Martinez and Matty Cash are all likely to start for the hosts, although it may prove too soon for latest addition Bertrand Traore while Wesley, Bjorn Engels and Tom Heaton are all injured.

Ethan Ampadu, Jayden Bogle and Max Lowe could be in contention after making their debuts against Burnley in the EFL Cup last week but Lys Mousset is ruled out and Simon Moore is doubtful.

Aston Villa vs Sheffield United preview

Although they finished almost 20 points adrift of their fellow newly-promoted visitors last season, Dean Smith’s men will have finished the campaign in higher spirits after going unbeaten in their final four matches to avoid the drop on the last day.

In contrast, the Blades saw their dream of European qualification disappear after three defeats in the last three games and just six points from the last available 30 on the road.

Aston Villa vs Sheffield United predictions

Having strengthened in the transfer market and enjoyed more time to prepare for this clash since last week’s comfortable EFL Cup win over Burton Albion, Villa look well worth backing at those 8/5 (3.60) odds to pick up where they left off with another win.

All odds correct at time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.