The international break is over, and fans of the Championship can finally look forward to seeing their teams back in action after what has felt like an extended absence.

Two teams relishing a return to action are Aston Villa and Brentford, who will do battle in Birmingham on Saturday afternoon.

The hosts emerge from the international break with a point to prove, with the early promotion favourites struggling in 18th place with just a single win to their name this season.

The visitors will enter the fixture on the back of a disappointing deadline-day for fans, in which the Bees let not one, not two, but three first team regulars depart for Birmingham City, cashing in on Harlee Dean, Jota and Maxime Colin in the final hours of the summer window.

A disappointing triple loss, all eyes will be on the Bees this weekend, as Championship enthusiasts see how the west Londoners bounce back from the triple loss.

Villa boss Steve Bruce may have entered the international break under some pressure, but the late signing of Robert Snodgrass on a season-long loan deal from West Ham United will have appeased some who may have questioned his credentials.

The club have made a number of changes this summer, cashing in on the bygones of the Premier League era, and investing in talent they feel are capable of guiding the club to a top flight return, following what will be a two year absence.

The squad assembled by Bruce is strong, and as it gels, the club should rise up the table to secure a top-six finish.

Brentford’s triple loss will not have helped the disappointment already around the club following their poor start, with the team yet to pick up a win in the league this season.

A thrashing of rivals QPR in the Carabao Cup was followed up with a solid point at home to big-spending Wolves, and manager Dean Smith will feel his side are heading in the right direction.

I can’t see the Bees picking up their first win of the season this weekend, but their ability to control matches and create chances will frustrate their hosts on Saturday afternoon.

There was a stalemate in this fixture last year, and I feel we could have a repeat on our hands.

Aston Villa 1-1 Brentford

What do you think? Who will take the spoils at Villa Park?