Aston Villa vs Norwich preview: Villains and Canaries facing must-win at Villa Park

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at Villa Park

(2016 Getty Images)

It’s a big game for…

Dieumerci Mbokani: The Canaries’ frontman has only struck four times since joining in the summer, but his goal in December helped beat Villa at Carrow Road. With Norwich lingering precariously above the drop zone they will need him to strike again, with points proving hard to come by.

Best stat…

10: Villa lie at the bottom of the Premier League table, 10 points from safety - and Saturday's rivals Norwich. They will be hoping to reduce that deficit at Villa Park.

Remember when…

Leon Barnett’s misjudged pass to John Ruddy saw mercurial Villa forward Gabby Agbonlahor presented with a simple chance to open the scoring? The English striker took full advantage, beating goalkeeper Ruddy in the tackle and sliding the ball into an empty net.

Player to watch…

Micah Richards: The former Manchester City academy graduate put in a positive shift against West Ham on Tuesday night, despite ten-men Villa falling to a 2-0 defeat at Upton Park. If they are to start a road to recovery, Richards’ determination and leadership will be key against the Canaries.

Past three meetings…

Norwich 2 (Howson, Mbokani) Aston Villa 0, Premier League, December 2015

Aston Villa 4 (Benteke 2, Bacuna, Bassong og) Norwich 1 (Hoolahan), Premier League, March 2014

Norwich 0 Aston Villa 1 (Kozak), Premier League, September 2013

Form guide…

Aston Villa: WDWDLL

Norwich: WLLLLL

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: Saturday, 3pm

TV: Highlights on BBC1