Aston Villa vs Chelsea, Premier League Gameweek 37: Open Thread

Due to the FA Cup Final today, the Premier League matches have been moved to tomorrow except for Chelsea’s match against Aston Villa this morning (US time). Aston Villa versus Chelsea is being played today because the Blues play in the Europa League final in Amsterdam on Wednesday.

For viewers in the United States, the match kicks off at 7:45am ET on ESPN2 and ESPN3.com

Aston Villa starting XI: Guzan, Bennett, Vlaar, Lichaj, Baker, Westwood, Delph, Sylla, Agbonlahor, Weimann, Benteke

Chelsea starting XI: Cech, Azpilicueta, Cole, Terry, Cahill, Moses, Lampard, Ramires Mata, Hazard, Ba.

For Chelsea, a win today will secure a Champions League spot for next season since they have a much greater goal difference than Tottenham Hotspur. A win will also move the club to just three points behind Manchester City.

For Aston Villa, a win at home today will guarantee another season in the Premier League. Even a draw may be enough, but if they do pick up one point today, we won’t know for sure whether it’ll guarantee safety until the final match of the season.

As well as the football played today at Villa Park, there’ll be a louder than usual round of applause in the 19th minute for Stiliyan Petrov. The Aston Villa captain will be in attendance at the ground. Plus, he’ll lead his team on a lap around the pitch after the final whistle. He announced his retirement from football earlier this week.

Before, during or after today’s match, join the conversation with fellow football supporters from around the world in the comments section below.

And don’t forget to join us later today for the FA Cup Final open thread for the match that kicks off at 12:15pm ET today between Manchester City and Wigan Athletic.

Have a wonderful Saturday!