Preview: Newcastle – Aston Villa

Newcastle United look to bounce back from their humiliating 5-0 drilling at the hands of Manchester City this week, with a home fixture to relegation strugglers Aston Villa.

Failure to win this match would mean Carver has not won a match in February, so far picking up 2 points from a possible 9, scoring 2 and conceding 7.

Despite the sacking of Paul Lambert and Tim Sherwood being put in charge, Villa lost their opening match under gilet wearing Sherwood, losing to a cruel final minute penalty at home to Stoke. Sherwood will be determined to claim his first success as Villa boss as soon as possible, with no better opportunity to do so than against an out of sorts, injury ridden Newcastle.

The last time these two sides met was in August, as the two sides struggled to really capitalise in the other’s ineptitude, grinding out a dull 0-0, in which Mike Williamson was sent off late on.

Team news:

Newcastle welcome back long time servant Jonas Gutierrez, who could make his first appearance for the club since the 2-1 away victory at Cardiff in October 2013. Since then Jonas has been loaned to Norwich City, returned, been diagnosed with testicular cancer, had treatment, recovered from chemotherapy and played for the Newcastle reserves. Now he’s training with the first team squad, fully fit and thriving to return. Inspirational.

Daryl Janmaat also looks set to stay in the squad, despite being brought off early against Man City as a precaution. There’s been no word on the fitness of Remy Cabella, but fans will be hopeful to see him also return as soon as possible.

As for Aston Villa, defenders Alan Hutton & Aly Cissokho are doubtful for the trip to Tyneside, whilst Phillippe Senderos and Kieran Richardson will both definitely miss out. Ron Vlaar is also suspended.

Clash to watch: Sissoko v Delph

Arguably both their clubs best respective players, both will be looking to win the midfield battle and open up play towards the final third. Both are also long distant shooters, so Tim and Brad will have to be on their toes when either come within 30 yards of goal.