Portsmouth v Aston Villa - Match Preview

Published: 01 Dec 2009 - 11:15:38

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Portsmouth v Aston Villa - Match Preview

Portsmouth host Aston Villa tonight knowing that victory could kick-start their season.

The Fratton Park side have struggled in the league so far but new manager Avram Grant has the chance to get his reign off to a good start by leading them into the Carling Cup semi-finals.

They will have to do it without Jamie O'Hara, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Mike Williamson and Tommy Smith, all of whom are cup-tied.

David James (calf), Steve Finnan (groin) and Papa Bouba Diop (hamstring) are also on the sidelines. Youngster Asmir Begovic is likely to deputise in goal for James.

Martin O'Neill's Villa will also be missing players; James Collins (groin) is still unavailable.

Nigel Reo-Coker picked up an ankle injury during their draw against Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend, a game Stephen Warnock missed through illness and both are doubts.

The Villains are also expected to go with a reserve keeper in the shape of American Brad Guzan. The former Chivas USA player kept his side in the competition with heroics in a penalty shoot-out against Sunderland.

- by David Brenchley