A month ago it looked like this fixture could be the game it all came down to in terms of who would be playing Championship football next season, Wigan Athletic or Aston Villa.

However, a month on and prior to a ball being kicked in this fixture, Wigan Athletic have had their fate confirmed after a crashing 4-1 defeat away at Arsenal on Tuesday.

Throughout April and May so far, Aston Villa have found a sudden improvement on the pitch when it was needed most and they’ve picked up 10 points from a possible 18, whereas Wigan Athletic have only gained 2 points from a possible 21, unfortunately for them, at the business end of the season that sort of form when you’re in a relegation battle will usually only lead to one outcome.

Despite being relegated on Tuesday, Wigan’s fans may still be in a ‘party spirit’ at this fixture, not only as it’s the final game of the season, but also as they pulled off one of the biggest FA Cup shocks in recent history last weekend, beating Man City 1-0 in the final.  Aston Villa fans haven’t had the most enjoyable of seasons but with their Premiership status retained for next season they will also likely be in high spirits, and the game is likely to be played amongst a good atmosphere.

The reverse fixture was played back in December when Wigan won 3-0 at Villa Park, however that was played when Aston Villa were probably in their worst form of the season and I can’t see a similar result this time round.

Both sides have players out, Aston Villa will be without leading scorer Christian Benteke after he was sent off against Chelsea, whereas Wigan Athletic will be without Callum McManaman after he was stretchered off against Arsenal.

I still think this fixture will have goals, and both teams to score can be backed at 8/13 with StanJames and SkyBet. In terms of who will take maximum points, I think Aston Villa will be looking to seek a bit of revenge for their 3-0 loss earlier in the season, and with Bet365 offering odds of 13/5 for the away win, that looks the standout bet.

Wigan v Aston Villa Betting Tips

Both Teams To Score – Yes – 8/13 SkyBet

Aston Villa To Win – 13/5 Bet365

Half Time / Full Time – Draw / Aston Villa – 8/1 Bet Victor 

Best Free Bets for this Match: William Hill – free £25       Titan Bet – free £25       Bet365 – free £200       Betway – risk free £50