Ben Dawson’s youngsters are in a rich vein of form having enjoyed a successful October so far, with the 5-2 Premier League 2 Division Two win over Fulham preceding a pair of impressive victories over Notts County in both the Checkatrade Trophy and the Premier League Cup.

They return to league action at the home of Walsall on Monday night, where they will face a fourth-placed Villa side who have won four of their last five in the league.

United, though, have struck nine goals in their last three games, with Danish frontman Elias Sørensen – who has netted four in his last three outings – in particularly ruthless form in front of goal.

The likes of Sørensen, Freddie Woodman and Sean Longstaff are expected to be involved for Dawson’s side, who could climb as high as sixth with a victory over Kevin McDonald’s team.