City u18s will be aiming to go four games unbeaten and retain top spot when they host Aston Villa on Saturday.

Jason Wilcox’s young side are enjoying a fantastic season in the u18 Premier League North Division, and sit two points clear at the summit, with a game in hand on their nearest rivals. Five more points from the remaining six fixtures would ensure a spot in the end of season play-offs. 

The boy Blues had to come from behind to see off Liverpool 2-1 at Kirkby Academy last weekend, but a classy display saw City worthy victors courtesy of goals from Brandon Barker and Bersant Celina. The duo now have 15 goals between them this term as part of an exciting attacking line-up.

Prior to the trip to Merseyside, City were tasked with back to back home fixtures – earning a point against Wolves after downing Middlesbrough 4-0 in a clinical performance.

Jack Byrne and Tosin Adarabioyo made their comebacks against the Reds after injury layoffs, while u18 regulars Blackburn to the sword and ran out 6-0 winners at Leigh Sports Village on Monday night.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa have lost four of their previous five games, but recorded a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Reading last time out.

This is the first time the two teams have faced each other this season, but the young Blues suffered defeats home and away against the Villans last term and will be seeking revenge this weekend.

Kick off is at 12pm at Platt Lane (M14 7UU). We’ll have updates on twitter as a full match report after full time on mcfc.co.uk.