class=”article_teaser__2t5do”>In strong form at St Mary's, Al Hain-Cole is backing the Saints to extend their dominant record against Smith's men with a win on Friday

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Aston Villa will be desperate for victory when they travel to St Mary’s to take on Southampton in Friday’s Premier League clash.

Dean Smith has seen his job come under some scrutiny after a run of four consecutive league defeats, his worst spell since early 2020.

Southampton vs Aston Villa latest odds

However, Aston Villa can be backed at 13/5 (3.60) with bet365 to ease the pressure with a much-needed three points on the south coast.

Southampton have taken seven points from the last available nine and are 21/20 (2.05) favourites to compound the visitors’ misery by coming out on top once again.

Just one of the last eight encounters between this duo has resulted in a draw, but you can get odds of 5/2 (3.50) on them cancelling each other out in this one.

Southampton vs Aston Villa first goalscorer

Che Adams is the hosts’ 11/2 (6.50) favourite to open the scoring after hitting the net in each of the last two games, while Armando Broja can be backed at 7/1 (8.0) following goals in his last two appearances.

With Danny Ings unavailable to face his former club due to injury, Ollie Watkins is the away side’s best first goalscorer option at 15/2 (8.50) after getting on target in two of the last four league fixtures and Leon Bailey is a 10/1 (11.0) outside bet.

Southampton vs Aston Villa preview

Although they go into this clash just a single point behind their opponents in the league, the Villans have struggled to hold their own in recent encounters – winning just once in 10 and losing six of the most recent eight.

It is hard to see them improving on that record on current form, having lost four consecutive matches and taken just three points from the last available 15 on the road.

Southampton vs Aston Villa tips & predictions

With Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men in confident spirits and having lost just twice in 10 league games in their own backyard, those 21/20 (2.05) odds seem solid on Southampton getting the better of a struggling Villa team yet again.

All odds correct at time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.