Aston Villa face a Tottenham side still searching for their first Premier League goal of the season on Saturday.
Spurs’ goalless draw against Everton extended that run to four matches.
For Unai Emery, it presents an opportunity to build on Villa’s midweek cup victory. However, Tottenham’s performance at Liverpool offers a reason to look beyond their league scoring record.
Villa will need to manage an opponent seeking a breakthrough while finding enough attacking rhythm to pursue their own win.
Tottenham’s cup performance gives Villa something to consider
Roberto De Zerbi’s side lost 3-1 at Anfield on Tuesday, but the scoreline did not tell the whole story.
According to Tottenham’s official account of the match, Spurs finished with 17 attempts to Liverpool’s 12.
Giorgi Mamardashvili made important saves, including a late stop from Omar Marmoush when Tottenham were chasing an equaliser.
Shot totals alone cannot establish which team deserved to win. They do, however, show why Villa should prepare for an active attacking threat.
Our assessment is that Emery’s side should approach Saturday with confidence while resisting the temptation to let Tottenham dictate possession and territory.
Keeping Spurs quiet will require a good defensive performance, regardless of what happened in their previous league games.
Villa’s Coventry win creates attacking choices
Villa arrive after a 3-1 victory over Coventry City, with Tammy Abraham scoring twice and Ross Barkley also on target.
That gives Emery decisions to make over how much of his cup selection to retain.
Abraham has strengthened his case for another start. The wider challenge is supplying whoever leads the attack without leaving Villa exposed when possession changes hands.
There is also uncertainty over João Gomes’ fitness. His availability could affect Emery’s midfield options.
Pedro Porro could change Tottenham’s selection
Pedro Porro is expected to return to Tottenham’s squad after a muscular problem, although a starting place remains unconfirmed.
Villa must therefore prepare for possible changes to the side that struggled against Everton.
The opportunity is clear: Tottenham have yet to find a league breakthrough. Villa’s task is to extend that frustration while creating enough chances to make Saturday count.
Kick-off is 12:30 BST. Our Tottenham vs Aston Villa viewing guide has the broadcast details.
