Villa Park will stage the clash between two clubs destined for a UEFA competition this season, as Aston Villa host Newcastle United.

Manager Unai Emery’s side, despite their UEFA Europa League status, have endured a frustrating transfer window in which Ivorian forward Evann Guessand remains their only first-team signing. 

They are also set to lose Jacob Ramsey to Saturday’s opponents, who pipped them to  UEFA Champions League qualification last season after a moment of controversy in Villa’s game against Manchester United rendered Newcastle’s defeat to Everton meaningless. 

On the final day of last season’s English Premier League, Morgan Rogers saw his goal disallowed leading to a 2-0 defeat at Old Trafford, which meant they were unable to ‘leapfrog’ Newcastle into fifth place. 

Despite this and winning their first domestic trophy in 70 years, the Magpies find themselves amid a transfer saga – with want-away striker Alexander Isak pushing for a move to Liverpool. 

However, manager Eddie Howe has bolstered his squad with winger Anthony Elanga, defender Malick Thiaw and goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Here, EPL Bets writer Callum Close has selected a treble, along with his reasons as to why he thinks it has a good chance of winning.

What are the best bets for Aston Villa v Newcastle United? 

Over 2.5 goals in the match 

There are always goals when these two teams meet, with all of the last seven head-to-head matches featuring at least three goals. 

Five matches saw at least four goals and that includes both of last season’s fixtures. 

Anthony Gordon to have over 0.5 shots on target

The England winger netted in the opening minutes of last season’s reverse fixture and will likely start up front on Saturday, due to Isak’s absence.

Joelinton to commit over 1.5 fouls  

Joelinton committed three fouls and received a booking in both of last season’s matches against Aston Villa. 

Where can I watch Aston Villa vs Newcastle United? 

Aston Villa vs Newcastle United will be live on TNT Sports 1, TNT Sports Ultimate and available to stream on discovery+.

Kick-off is at 12:30pm (GMT) with live coverage starting from 11am, on Saturday, August 16.  

What is Aston Villa’s form?

W-D-W-L-W

What is Newcastle’s form? 

L-L-D-D-L

What was the score when Aston Villa played Newcastle in their last game?

Aston Villa 4-1 Newcastle (EPL – Apr 19, 2025)

Who scored when Aston Villa played Newcastle in their last game? 

Ollie Watkins (1’), Ian Maatsen (64’), Dan Burn OG (73’), Amadou Onana (75’) 

Fabian Schar (18’)