Aston Villa v Rotherham preview: Championship clash live on Sky Sports red button
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Tuesday 18 September 2018 19:52, UK
Aston Villa boss Steve Bruce must decide whether to recall midfielder Birkir Bjarnason for the home game against Rotherham on Tuesday night, live on Sky Sports.
Iceland international Bjarnason was left out of the squad altogether for Saturday's draw at Blackburn, but is hoping to feature. Bruce has no new injury or suspension worries as his side chase their first league win in six matches.
Striker Scott Hogan is still working his way back from the groin injury which has sidelined him since the end of last season and Keinan Davis remains sidelined due to a similar problem.
Rotherham midfielder Richie Towell is expected to feature after suffering cramp in Saturday's home win against Derby. The Millers initially feared Towell could have sustained a hamstring injury, but he is hoping to be included in the squad.
Defender Clark Robertson is still sidelined with the groin problem which forced him to miss out at the weekend, but Joe Newell is in contention for a recall. Sean Raggett, on loan from Norwich, will play no part until Christmas following ankle surgery.
Opta stats
Aston Villa have won their last four matches against Rotherham in all competitions, beating them twice in their most recent league meetings during 2016-17.
Rotherham have lost four of their previous five league trips to Villa Park, winning the other 2-1 in October 1971.
Steve Bruce's only home league defeat to Rotherham as manager came in April 2001 as Wigan manager - current Millers boss Paul Warne was playing for Rotherham that day.
Aston Villa are winless in their last five Championship matches (L1 D4), last going six without a victory back in February 2017 (run of nine).
Rotherham have lost 25 of their last 28 Championship matches away from home (D3), last winning back in April 2016, 4-0 at MK Dons.
Aston Villa have not lost at home in the league when scoring the first goal in any of their last 35 such matches (W28 D7), winning nine of the last 10 (D1).
Prutton's prediction
David Prutton predicts: 1-1 (7/1 with Sky Bet)
