Paul Merson has now predicted who he thinks will win this weekend when Nottingham Forest meet Aston Villa.
He has been speaking to Sportskeeda ahead of the next round of Premier League matches.
So, what does Merson think will happen to Forest this weekend? Let’s take a closer look…
Paul Merson predicts who will win this weekend – Nottingham Forest or Aston Villa
Well, it’s likely to have been a positive week on the training pitch after Forest ended a run of five games without a win in the Premier League by beating West Ham.
With that in mind, Merson does think the game this weekend will be closer than some might anticipate.
Villa have been brilliant at home this season, although in recent weeks they have had some setbacks at Villa Park, with Newcastle and Manchester United beating them.
Merson thinks he will be a closer one and he thinks Forest could be very dangerous in this one.
He told Sportskeeda: “This is a dodgy game for Aston Villa. I’ve watched enough of Nottingham Forest, and they’re dangerous on the counter.
“Villa are going to have a go this weekend, but Forest have a lot of pace on the counter and that could hurt the hosts.
“Aston Villa play a high line, and that does leave them vulnerable at the back. I wouldn’t be shocked if Forest managed to get a result, but I’m going to back Aston Villa to win this game.”
Forest have to show confidence against Villa
This will be a tough game but it’s perhaps no surprise that Merson has gone with a 2-1 win for Aston Villa.
Unai Emery’s team are very strong at home and the smart money will go on the hosts this weekend.
However, Forest have defied the odds on several occasions under Nuno Espirito Santo and hopefully, another shock can be on the cards.
Forest have to believe they can get something from every game for the remainder of the campaign.
Under Espirito Santo that has largely been evident and hopefully, Forest can claim another scalp this weekend by beating Villa again this season.
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