Aston Villa will be under the stewardship of caretaker manager Eric Black for the first time on Saturday, with the former first team coach handed the reigns after the sacking of Rémi Garde. It comes with the Villans having lost eight of their last nine matches in all competitions, and falling 12 points adrift of Premier League safety with just seven games remaining. Garde's recent sacking appears less like evasive action and more like glum preparation for championship football.
Chelsea vs. Aston Villa 2016 live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
Chelsea will be expecting to record another win when they travel to Villa Park on Saturday.
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Chelsea, meanwhile, haven't had a particularly good few weeks, having been held by Stoke City and West Ham United, as well as being dumped out of both the Champions League and FA Cup. Nevertheless, they're still unbeaten in the league since Guus Hiddink replaced José Mourinho in December, and the reigning champions have slowly but surely made their way up into mid-table. They'll be expecting to add another three points here.
Key player: Willian (Chelsea)
Despite Chelsea's generally horrible form this season, one man who's been able to keep his head held high is winger Willian. The Brazilian international has delivered a string of excellent performances out on the right of the Blues' attack, with his characteristic blend of technical skill and tireless industry helping him to offer valuable support in all phases of play. He should have little problem getting the better of Villa left-back Aly Cissokho.
Recent history
Chelsea have won their last three matches against Villa, and recorded a 2-1 victory on their last visit to Villa Park last February. Not since March 2014 have the Villans managed to get one over on the Blues, though they were doubtless helped by red cards picked up by both Willian and Ramires.
Aston Villa injuries and suspensions
Out: Jordan Amavi (knee). In doubt: Libor Kozák (ankle), Micah Richards (groin).
Chelsea injuries and suspensions
Out: Radamel Falcao (thigh); Kurt Zouma (knee); Eden Hazard (unspecified muscle); Diego Costa (suspended). In doubt: Kenedy (head).
Villa’s only certain absentee is young fullback Amavi, though he’ll likely be joined on the sidelines by defender Richards and striker Kozák. Chelsea, meanwhile, will be without defender Zouma, injured attackers Hazard and Falcao, and the suspended Costa. Kenedy will have to pass a late fitness test after a head injury if he’s to be involved.
Match date/time: Sat., 7:45 a.m. ET, 12:45 p.m. local
Venue: Villa Park, Birmingham, England
TV: NBCSN (US - English); NBC Universo (US - Spanish); Sportsnet regional networks (Canada); BT Sport 1 (UK)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (US - English); NBC Deportes En Vivo Extra (US - Spanish); Sportsnet World Now (Canada); BT Sport live streaming (UK)
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