Hutton predicts Aston Villa player will make first league start of season v Everton after Watkins blow | OneFootball

Alan Hutton has tipped Keinan Davis to replace Ollie Watkins in the Aston Villa starting XI against Everton.

The former Villa defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested fellow striker Wesley still needed more minutes under his belt after his lengthy injury layoff.

Watkins will be missing on Thursday night after being sent off in the 3-1 defeat to Manchester United.

The summer signing has started every one of Villa’s 34 Premier League games this season.

In stark contrast, Davis has not started in the league once this term.

However, with Wesley still working his way back from a knee injury, Hutton tipped the 23-year-old youth graduate to lead the line against the Toffees.

“Personally, I think it’ll be Keinan Davis,” Hutton told Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge.

“Wesley has been out a long time. He’s had a couple of cameos but I think it’s a big ask for him to come in and lead the line for such a long time, as in 90 minutes.

“I think Davis has shown he is willing to fight for that place with the cameo appearances that he’s made. He’s come on and done really well, affected the games. I think he’s due an opportunity.

“He’s had to sit all season and wait because Ollie Watkins has been so robust and never really missed any minutes. Also, he’s played really well and gave a lot for the team.

“I think it’s time for Keinan Davis. This is a good opportunity for him to step up and show his worth from the start. So I actually hope he does get that start.”

Davis scored his first Premier League goal as a substitute against West Brom last month.

Watkins will miss one game after picking up two yellow cards on Sunday.

In other news, an Aston Villa transfer guru is set to quit the club, Football Insider understands.