Premier League preview: Aston Villa v Blackburn

Blackburn’s bid to bounce back from an opening-day defeat at Wolves will not be easy as they are on the road at Aston Villa on Saturday.

The manner of Rovers’ 2-1 loss to Wolves was particularly disappointing as they conceded the lead against a side expected to be battling relegation again this season.

And although the Premier League clash at Villa Park represents an ideal chance for Steve Kean’s men to bounce back, they will be tested against a side who claimed a point in a goalless draw at Fulham in their season opener.

Kean was forced to field a makeshift pairing of midfielder Steven N’Zonzi and 19-year-old Grant Hanley at the back against Wolves, with experienced defenders Christopher Samba (groin) and Ryan Nelsen (knee) missing.

Both are in contention to come back for Saturday’s match and if they do, they will boost the visitors’ chances dramatically.

But Villa will be keen to impress their home fans in their first competitive appearance at Villa Park since the sales of Ashley Young (Manchester United) and Stewart Downing (Liverpool).

Their wide roles were filled by new signing Charles N’Zogbia and striker Gabriel Agbonlahor at Fulham, although Marc Albrighton may be preferred after he impressed after coming on as a substitute.

Goalkeeper Shay Given was particularly impressive in his first appearance for his new club while the match will also mark manager Alex McLeish’s competitive bow at Villa Park.

After crossing over from arch-rivals Birmingham, who were relegated under McLeish’s leadership, many Villa fans were disappointed with the announcement of their new manager.

He needs to win them over with good results and the first step is on Saturday against a weak Blackburn side.

Darren Bent is expected to have another prolific season up front for the Villans, and he would have opened his account on Saturday if it were not for the offside flag.

Whoever starts in Blackburn’s defence will be key in determining the outcome of this match, with Bent likely to run riot if he is confronted with the same pairing that took on Wolves last week.