“It all started for me at Aston Villa, and those are fond memories from the early stage of my career, where I developed into a more complete player. I tipped them to finish in the top four last season, and they came close. They did well in the Champions League but struggled to juggle that with the Premier League and cup competitions.

“They’re gaining experience, and they’ve got one of the best managers in the Premier League in Unai Emery. I think they’ll have a decent season – maybe not quite as strong as the last couple of years, but still solid considering where they’ve been recently”.

And how about their squad? Any areas you think they need to strengthen before the transfer window closes?

DY: “As a manager, you tend not to talk too much about other teams, but I think Villa haven’t sold many players and have added a couple. With the number of games now, that’s important.

I think Villa have quietly done some good business. People might say I’m biased because of my history there, but they’ve made some smart signings. Unai Emery’s got great experience and I trust his judgement. If I had to say, I think they might strengthen more defensively. Attacking-wise, they’ve got decent options already”.

Ollie Watkins has been linked with a move to Manchester United. Do you think that’d be a good move for both sides?

“I don’t think that will happen now they’ve signed Benjamin Sesko. That might have been an option before, but spending around £70 million on him cements that position. With Rasmus Højlund rumoured to be moving to AC Milan, there could be changes, but I don’t think Ollie Watkins would want to be a second-string striker at Man United. So despite the rumours, I don’t see it happening”.

How good is Evann Guessand? What are your thoughts on him as a player?

“I’ll be honest, I don’t know too much about him. The Premier League is the toughest league in the world, and while some players adapt quickly, it’s rare. Without the know-how and experience of this league’s demands and physicality, it can be tough. He’s got huge potential, but until he plays at this level, it’s hard to judge”.

Aston Villa play Newcastle on Saturday – what are your thoughts for the game and if you had to give a correct score prediction tip on OLBG.com what would it be?

“If it’s at Villa Park, that changes things. I’d expect a close game, but I’ll edge towards Villa, especially with the uncertainty around Newcastle’s squad and whether their top talisman will play. I’ll go for a narrow Villa win. I’ll say 1-0 to Villa. Early in the season, games are usually tight and low-scoring”.