Aston Villa will be eager to rub salt in the wounds of Premier League title challengers Arsenal on Saturday afternoon as the two sides face off at Villa Park. Unai Emery, taking on his former team, has worries of his own to deal with but will take confidence from the fact the Gunners have lost two of their last three.
Defeated by Manchester City in a huge top-two clash on Wednesday evening, Mikel Arteta’s side have been knocked down heavily just days before they travel to B6. Villa, meanwhile, are also in poor form having lost their last two, but this is arguably the best time to play Arsenal.
There was a slight improvement in the second half for the Lions last time out, as Ollie Watkins scored to bring one back in Villa’s own fixture against City. It was another defeat, however, as the ruthless Cityzens made it seven goals conceded in the space of eight days for Emery and his men.
It will undoubtedly be yet another tough challenge for Villa this weekend but there will be some belief, especially as they have had a few extra days to prepare than Arsenal have. With some players returning from injury and others knocked back, here is our predicted Villa starting XI for Saturday. See below.
1. GK: Emiliano Martinez
Seven goals conceded in his last two games but remains a world class goalkeeper. He will be desperate for a clean sheet against his former side. | Getty Images
2. RB: Matty Cash
Might be his best chance in a while to get a game as Ashley Young was a bit off it in Manchester, but it’s a tight call. | Getty Images
3. CB: Ezri Konsa
Looks to be dwindling toward a drop to the bench when Diego Carlos is back but that day is yet to come, so Konsa remains. | AFP via Getty Images
4. CB: Tyrone Mings
Missed out last time out with a slight injury but comes back in for Calum Chambers, who looked out of his depth last weekend. Mings needs to improve but gets a spot. | Getty Images