Aston Villa midfielder Conor Hourihane insists the side will be looking to attack from the first whistle when they travel to take on local rivals West Brom on Friday.

The game at The Hawthorns promises to be an outstanding contest, with the top two scorers in the Championship coming head-to-head.

That adds to what will be a feisty game anyway between two rivals that are competing for promotion.

However, Hourihane told the Express & Star that the focus for Villa is to go all-out for the win, although he did acknowledge it will be a tough test.

"The gaffer does not want to go to any place and set up for a draw. That is just not his way of doing things. It is all about winning and it is great to be part of it.

"Listen, West Brom are a good side and they have great firepower in their team. It is going to be another tough game away from home, a local derby on the telly."

Villa have really excelled since Dean Smith was appointed and they have already picked up emphatic wins against several promotion contenders, including successive 3-0 wins at Derby and Middlesbrough on their last two away trips.

The Verdict

This really should be a cracker on Friday and you can tell from Hourihane's comments that Villa are full of confidence.

That's completely understandable as they've shown under Smith they can beat anyone in this league and Friday will hold no fear for the team.

If they do manage to get another three points then they will just be one point behind Albion.

Thoughts, Villa fans? Let us know in the comments below.

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