After I went to see Newcastle against Manchester United at Old Trafford yesterday, I can clearly see that Newcastle United are definitely not the former team that they once were in the Premiership.

The front line lacked any impetus with Andy Carroll looking lacklustre at best, Shola Ameobi looked like he came to have a practice run. Joey Barton was the hardest working player on the day but he was average at best with the goalkeeper Steve Harper looking totally uncertain of being a Premiership no.1.

Villa on the other hand should have the transfer of Stephen Ireland completed, which would give them a midfielder who is more on the creative side to help them create plays and get more attacking and with Young and Downing on the wings, I definitely think that the Newcastle boys have a run for their money.

A very important factor is the set defensive line of Aston Villa who looked quite solid against West Ham United, and will hoping to have repeat performance as they travel up north to face the Geordies.

Aston Villa should win this one on the asian line.