The first round of the EFL Cup continues on Wednesday, with Colchester United welcoming Aston Villa to the Colchester Community Stadium. With the duo looking to return to League One and the Premier League respectively, it could well be that both teams name experimental line-ups in midweek.
Villa boss Steve Bruce has added a whole host of experienced players during the summer transfer window, however it will most likely be the club’s youngsters and fringe players that make up their starting line-up in Essex. With a whole host of bets expected on this match, let’s take a look at the two teams in greater detail, as well as our top betting tip for the encounter.
Colchester United Form
Having finished just outside the play-off places in League Two last season, Colchester are among the favourites for promotion this time around. Manager John McGreal has added a whole host of free transfers to his squad, with Sean Murray, Dean Brill and Luke Prosser among the standout names. However, having lost inspirational midfielder George Moncur and George Elekobi, it remains to be seen as to how the Essex-based club will kick off their season. Having travelled to Accrington Stanley for their opening game of the season at the weekend, Colchester face Aston Villa in what is their first competitive home game of the season.
Aston Villa Form
Villa have seen their pre-season campaign thrown into turmoil after two cancelled friendly fixtures, with Steve Bruce having had little time to get his players up to speed on the field. Despite John Terry, Christopher Samba and Glen Whelan having signed over the summer, it would be a surprise to see any of the trio line-up at the Colchester Community Stadium. Having already played Hull City in the Championship just a matter of days earlier, the likes of Gabby Agbonlahor, Albert Adomah and James Bree will be looking for starts in the EFL Cup on Wednesday. Villa are five-time winners of this competition, however it is unlikely that they will put too much emphasis on it this year.
Top Betting Tip
Having looked at the teams in great detail, it is likely that Aston Villa will come out on top on Wednesday, even if they are likely to name a weakened team against Colchester United. For those looking to back Steve Bruce’s men, best odds of 8/11 at bookmakers William Hill can be found.