This article is part of Football FanCast's The Chalkboard series, which provides a tactical insight into teams, players, managers, potential signings and more... 

Aston Villa are back in Premier League action this weekend as they host Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday afternoon.

The two teams battled it out not too long ago in the Carabao Cup with the south coast side naming a predominantly youth-focused line up as Dean Smith's men ran out 3-1 winners to set up a tie with Midlands rivals Wolves in the next round.

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Now they will be looking to build on their last top-flight outing after demolishing Norwich City 5-1 on their own patch - Wesley doubled his tally for the season while a trio of midfielders also managed to get their name on the scoresheet.

Their chances of doing so may hinge on whether or not they can keep one of Smith's former favourites under lock and key.

On the Chalkboard

Over the summer, Villa were often linked to Neal Maupay as the 40-year-old first brought him to England when he was the manager at Brentford back in 2017.

But the Seagulls eventually clinched him in a £16m deal and so far he's enjoying life in the Premier League, scoring three goals in six starts, including the opener against Tottenham last time out.

His record in English football has been quite superb, having netted 41 goals in 95 appearances for the Bees over just two seasons.

Aston Villa's summer signings' performances so far this season are rated in the video below...

He is likely to be the dangerman for Brighton on Saturday afternoon, but Smith should know, at least to some extent, how to combat his former striker.

Because if he doesn't, he could well leave a lasting effect on Villa, particularly if those summer transfer links were indeed correct.

Maupay played 58 times under Smith at Brentford, scoring 23 times and claiming eight assists - a fabulous return.

The 23-year-old averages 2.5 shots per game, but is prone to the odd dispossession (1.9) and unsuccessful touch (2.4), per WhoScored, and this is where the likes of Tyrone Mings and Bjorn Engels can capitalise.