The most expensive game in world football takes place on Saturday as Aston Villa and Fulham meet in the Championship play-off final which will result in £170million guaranteed income for the winner.
Steve Bruce guided his side past Middlesbrough to give his side a chance of promotion and that would be his fifth promotion to the top-flight, which would be a record.
“I’ve waited 20 years to work at a club like this,” said Bruce. “The reason why I’m here is probably because the club was in that mess.
“Let’s hope it’s the start, let’s hope it’s a new beginning in the Premier League and we give ourselves a chance to stay in in next year, rebuild again and get the club where it needs to be.”
Fulham, who overcame Derby to reach the finals, come into the game as favourites and their boss Slavisa Jokanovic believes he has identified a weakness in their opponents.
They are an old and tired team and they are going to show some weaknesses,” Jokanovic said.
“Steve Bruce knows how to protect his defensive line, but we know we can put them under pressure and cause damage.
“John Terry has played so many games at Wembley, but we are going to put him under pressure from strong and fast players, and we hope he can make some mistakes.”
See below for a preview on the game, including predictions from former England, Crystal Palace and Tottenham midfielder Andy Gray and our own Football Insider Graeme Bailey and bet365’s Steve Freeth.
Aston Villa 17:00 Fulham
Wembley Stadium
TEAM NEWS: Ahmed Elmohamady and Neil Taylor will both have late fitness tests before Steve Bruce decides on his team. Jed Steer and Axel Tuanzebe are unlikely to feature. Fulham are without Sheyi Ojo, but Floyd Ayite is back from injury.
KEY FACT: Steve Bruce will win a record breaking five promotion with victory
MATCH ODDS: West Ham 18/5 Draw 14/5 Man Utd 5/6
bet365 Pick: Fulham to win in 90 minutes @29/20
ANDY SAYS: I think the best footballing team is winning this, so Fulham for me…3-1
GRAEME SAYS: I believe that Aston Villa will just be too strong and win it…2-0
FOOTBALLIndex – One to follow:Ryan Sessegnon – Could be his last game for Fulham, either way get on him
