Derby County defender Curtis Davies believes that Aston Villa's approach could favour the Rams this weekend, as they hunt more points in their quest for a Premier League place.

Frank Lampard's side have mounted a serious promotion challenge so far this season and they'll be hoping to continue that against Dean Smith's Villa, struggling for consistency in the wake of Steve Bruce's departure.

The 33-year old defender, absent for much of the season, believes that Villa's style will suit Derby, although it will still be a tough encounter. Despite Villa winning their last game, Davies is still hopeful of taking al, three points.

"They won their last game, so they will be coming off the back of a good win and they'll have confidence," he told Derbyshire Live. "So whatever we think we're going to do, or they're going to do, we just have to make sure that we're at it on the day."

The Rams are currently on a six game unbeaten run in the Championship and Villa's attempts to get the ball down and play could suit Derby perfectly, according to Davies.

"It's going to be a different threat than against Birmingham. They are going to play football and want to come at us, which I think might be better for us. But ultimately, we need to have the quality to make sure we win the game and that's all that matters."

Davies is no stranger to the claret and blue, having spent four years there between 2007 and 2011, making 49 Premier League appearances.

The Verdict

The style of play might suit Derby, but the quality of player is also very different. Aston Villa have very good players, all hoping to gain some confidence and hope from putting together a run.

This won't be an easy game at all, if Villa do play the ball around nicely they could give the Rams a run for their money. It's going to be a cracker for the neutral though, both sides look to entertain as well as win.

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