Aston Villa travel to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon to face title challengers Arsenal in the Premier League.
Unai Emery’s side, 2-1 victors over LOSC Lille on Thursday night, have a mightily quick turnaround compared to the Gunners, who drew 2-2 with Bayern Munich on Tuesday. But the Villans must avoid excuses as there’s a task to collect a valuable point or three in the top-four race.
Arsenal, currently at the summit of the standings after 31 matches played, have lost just four matches all season. Mikel Arteta’s side, the holders of the best attacking and defensive records in the division, have also recorded a league-high 22 victories.
It’s undoubtedly a challenge for Villa but one they must welcome with open arms as acceptance of defeat could be catastrophic, not only for the lack of points but also for the goal difference. Emery and his men will know the result of Tottenham Hotspur’s clash with Newcastle United, too, adding to the pressure.
Douglas Luiz is suspended for this game and the next - against AFC Bournemouth - so a midfield replacement must be picked. There are also dilemmas elsewhere in the selection with the likes of Moussa Diaby, Alex Moreno and Tim Iroegbunam pushing for starts.
With all that in mind, here’s the Villa lineup we predict will be named in north London.
1. GK - Emi Martinez
Martinez proved on Thursday night why he’s regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. His former employers will regret letting him go.
2. RB - Ezri Konsa
Konsa could do with a rest at some stage and it could come soon but not just yet. Matty Cash will train on Saturday but he’s unlikely to start.
3. CB - Diego Carlos
Carlos struggled against Lille, giving the ball away early and getting outjumped for Diakite’s goal. Nonetheless, he’s a top player and will be eager to bounce back.
4. CB - Pau Torres
Pau put in a much better display midweek after a bit of a shocker against Brentford. He needs to be at his absolute best on Sunday if Villa are to succeed.