Aston Villa live: Updates, team news and bet of the day

We could end up ninth by the end of the day today. I'm not convinced we will, but we could but it does mean we have to have results go our way and that is why I'm not convinced.

You see, today isn't about other results, it is just about us winning. We need three points for many reasons and there are plenty more why the players should want to win. It is up the the eleven today.

Four to go

It is also coming close to the end of the season. I don't know about you but I can feel an element of relief coming, but I know there is going to be a feeling of 'what do I do now' as there is only the European Under-21 Championship finals this summer and while I know I'll watch, it isn't going to be as big and it is going to mean a lot more free time for me.

What I'm getting at is I'm going to enjoy these last few days as much as I can and just hope for the best and look for glimpses. I'm hoping one of those glimpses is Barry Bannan today who was recalled from Leeds this week.

We need to blood the youngsters and they need to get games. They can't just sit on the bench or go out on loan - we have to give them time to mix it with the first team and see what they are capable of.

It is the future and while I don't think Bannan will start today, I think he might make an appearance at some time and with three games to follow, I'm hoping some more of the younger players also get a chance, but just not all at once, not unless we are mathematically safe.

So, shall we try and enjoy today? I'm going to, because if we have learnt anything the last couple of weeks; there are more important things, okay, maybe not come 3pm, but you know what I mean.

Updates, team news and all that banter

You know you can watch the game here and that I'll be Tweeting during the match and if you're not on Twitter, you can see the results of the Twitter feed in the right column.

Also, as soon as the team news is announced, we will add it here and Tweet it, but I have a feeling we might not see any changes to the starting eleven today although a surprise would be welcome.

Bet of the day

I've had a couple of good returns this week. I had a double on Manchester United and Stoke on Tuesday and Barcelona and Fulham on Wednesday, so while I'm feeling confident about my bet today, it is only a feeling. Follow at your own risk.

I'm having a tenner on Chelsea, Blackpool and Fulham and I'm getting 10/1 at PaddyPower for this cheeky bet and I like that. You can get those odds quickly by clicking here.

For those more interested in our match today, the best odds are below. Bet for fun, not your future.

I'll be back in an hour or so. See you soon.