The huge Aston Villa decision Steven Gerrard must make ahead of Newcastle clash

Aston Villa will be lining up to face Newcastle United on Sunday at St James' Park, a stadium they have failed to secure all three points for over 17 years.

Prior to this game, the majority of discussion has been focused around who will replace the injured Emi Buendia who is a doubt for this fixture and Ezri Konsa who will serve a one match ban for his red card against Leeds United. However, Gerrard will also be faced with one more decision to make ahead of the 2pm kick-off tomorrow, which is centred around both Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings.

Watkins has done everything asked of him so far this season from his hold up play to his elusive runs in behind, such as the one that created the space for Jacob Ramsey's second goal versus Leeds. However, a strong run of goal scoring form has eluded him, leaving him looking dejected in Villa's midweek fixture against Marcelo Bielsa's men.

Watkins has been favoured in the starting role recently but is without a goal since the 2-0 victory at Carrow Road in December, which could therefore open the door for Danny Ings to be given a start on this occasion.

The two players both have their individual qualities and merits but are yet to flourish when playing in the same side together. Therefore, Gerrard will ultimately have to make a decision as to which one should start versus Newcastle, and here is why it could be best for Villa that Ings is given his chance.

As shown against Brentford, Ings only needs a small window of opportunity to finish his chances given his clinical edge in front of goal, a trait that Watkins isn't renowned for. In terms of their opponents this weekend, this level of finishing could prove to be key.

No team in the league has conceded a higher expected goals (xG)