U21s Preview: Aston Villa v Palace

Academy

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Crystal Palace Under-21s make the trip to Birmingham on Halloween (Friday, 31st October, 19:00 GMT) to take on Aston Villa at the Bodymoor Heath Training Ground - get the full lowdown below!

This game will also be streamed LIVE on Palace TV+ on Friday evening (19:00 GMT) - click HERE to learn more about Palace TV+ and subscribe today!

Eagle-Eyed Review

Palace Under-21s will be aiming to bounce back on Halloween when they travel to Aston Villa, following a narrow 2-0 defeat against Newcastle United at the VBS Community Stadium on Monday (27th October).

Anthony Muda opened the scoring for the visitors midway through the first half, before Zach Marsh came close to levelling after rounding the 'keeper. Palace finished the half on top and carried that momentum into the second period, with Adler Nascimento and George King both threatening to equalise.

Despite sustained pressure, the young Eagles were caught by a second Newcastle strike from Joe Brayson, bringing an end to our unbeaten home record.

Darren Powell’s side remain level on 10 points with Villa in the Premier League 2 Division One table and will look to get back to winning ways on the road.

Our Opponent – Aston Villa U21s

After finishing bottom of Premier League 2 last season, Aston Villa’s U21s have made significant progress this term, boosted by the promotion of their U18 Premier League and FA Youth Cup double-winning squad.

Under new head coach James Shan, who led that triumphant U18s side, Villa have already recorded more league wins by the end of September than they managed throughout 2024/25. They currently sit 13th in Premier League 2 – just three points off the play-off spots – and have shown real attacking intent in recent weeks.

The young Villans’ season has featured notable results, including back-to-back 3-2 away wins over Everton and Nottingham Forest, as well as a resilient draw against Sunderland in which 'keeper Owen Asemota saved two penalties. Their only recent defeat came narrowly against West Ham, ending a three-match unbeaten run.

In cup competition, Villa reached the Round of 16 in both the UEFA Youth League and Vertu Trophy last season and continue to blend domestic and European experience within a youthful squad.

Likely line-up

Aston Villa (predicted): Asemota; McWilliams, Routh, Carroll, Fortes; Burrows, Hemmings, Borland; Jimeh-Aloba, Wilson, Broggio.

Team news

Rory Wilson and Mason Cutcher are both pushing for a starting berth up front, while Mohammed Kone could replace George Hemmings in midfield. Alfie Lynskey is another option in attack, with Trai-Jan Mulley or Omar Khedar potential alternatives for Bradley Burrows. Bloomfield may come in for Rodrigo Fortes at left-back.

Pre-Match Analysis

Villa rank 13th in Premier League 2 for both goals scored (13) and conceded (14). Prior to their defeat against West Ham, they were unbeaten in three and had lost just once in five matches – highlighting their improvement under Shan’s guidance.

For Palace, the focus will be on turning possession and pressure into goals, having shown strong attacking intent in recent outings. With both sides level on points, this Halloween clash provides a perfect opportunity for the young Eagles to climb the table.

Key Player - Bradley Burrows

Winger Bradley Burrows has been a standout for Villa since stepping up from the U18s. Part of last season’s U18 treble-winning side, Burrows has continued his fine form at U21 level, contributing goals and assists while providing a consistent threat from wide areas.

Burrows made his professional debut as a second-half substitute in our victory over Villa at the end of August. He has also been named in the squad for the U17 World Cup in Qatar.

The Gaffer - James Shan

Appointed as Villa’s U21 Head Coach in June, James Shan has quickly impressed by implementing an energetic, possession-based style. His coaching credentials were underlined last season when he led Villa’s U18s to a historic treble: the U18 Premier League South title, national championship, and FA Youth Cup.

Villa’s President of Football Operations, Monchi, praised Shan’s appointment, noting:

“The club is very excited by the talent within our Academy. Jimmy has shown his ability to develop players and lead successful teams – we’re looking forward to seeing him continue that work with the Under-21s.”

Match Details

Aston Villa U21s v Crystal Palace U21s

Friday, 31st October
19:00 GMT
Premier League 2 Division One
Bodymoor Heath Training Ground
Watch LIVE on Palace TV+

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