Sun Jan 18 16:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Villa Aim to Extend Home Streak Against Everton, Grealish Returns to Face Former Club
The Story:
Aston Villa is hosting Everton in a Premier League match with significant implications at both ends of the table. Villa, aiming to extend their home winning streak to a club-record 12 games, have a chance to close the gap on league leaders Arsenal. Everton, under manager David Moyes, seek to disrupt Villa’s dominance and build upon their recent away form. The game marks Jack Grealish’s third return to Villa Park since his transfer to Manchester City in 2021, adding another layer of intrigue to the contest.
The early minutes saw near misses and robust challenges, with both teams showing intent. Harrison Armstrong started his third consecutive game for Everton, praised by Ashley Young for his maturity.
Key Points:
- Aston Villa can break a club record with their 12th consecutive home win.
- Jack Grealish returns to Villa Park to face his former club.
- Everton are without Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye due to AFCON commitments.
- David Moyes states the club will back him in the transfer market.
- Aston Villa’s starting lineup sees Tielemans in for the injured Kamara, and Watkins replacing Malen.
- Everton starts with Thierno Barry up front and Grealish in the XI.
Key Takeaways:
- Aston Villa is in a strong position to challenge for the Premier League title, but faces a potentially tricky test against a resurgent Everton.
- Jack Grealish’s return to Villa Park adds emotional weight to the match.
- Everton’s transfer strategy will likely focus on targeted acquisitions rather than big-money signings.
- Home form is crucial for Villa, but Everton’s away form could pose a threat.
First Piper 