After seven rounds, Tottenham remains one of the most pleasant stories of the start of the season. Thomas Frank’s team, which has taken a course for stability and structural discipline, confidently entered the last international break in the top 3 and is unbeaten in all competitions for seven matches in a row. “Spurs” skillfully combine control and speed, and the 2-1 victory over Leeds ahead of the national team matches only underlined their maturity.

The form and confidence of players such as Mohamed Qudus, who once again shone with a goal and an assist, became the key to positive dynamics. Despite serious personnel losses – Maddison, Bissuma, Kulusevski and Solanke are out – Frank’s team shows depth and strong character. Rookie Randal Kolo Muani could make his Premier League debut after injury, which would add variety to the attack. At the same time, the Londoners have reason for self-criticism: only three victories in the last 17 matches at their own stadium in the Premier League.

Aston Villa under the leadership of Unai Emery is experiencing a real rebirth. The Lions have won four games in a row in all competitions, including triumphs over Bologna, Feyenoord and Fulham, to overcome their early season slump. After a lethargic start, Birmingham breathes optimism again, with the team’s play becoming more dynamic, with Donyell Mullen and Morgan Rodgers adding speed and creativity to the forward line.

It is also important that Aston Villa has a unique and interesting streak – they have not lost in the last ten EPL matches that took place immediately after the international breaks (eight wins, two draws). In addition, Emery has already won Tottenham three times in a row – twice in the league and once in the FA Cup. The team will arrive in London in great spirits, especially if Ollie Watkins, who is recovering from a minor injury, is fit to play. In addition, one more statistic is in favor of the “lions”: Thomas Frank has never beaten Unai Emery’s Aston Villa in five previous attempts (W2 D3).