Villa Park awaits a truly historic night as Aston Villa, gearing up for a first European semi-final in 42 years, play host to Greek giants Olympiacos this Thursday.
Unai Emery’s men, fresh from Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Chelsea in the Premier League, must now revert their focus to the UEFA Europa Conference League. A two-legged affair against this season’s fourth-best Greek team is all that stands between Villa and the final in Athens but it’ll be hard work to get there.
Making a strong start is so important, as reflected in the quarter-finals. Villa went into the second leg against Lille with a one-goal aggregate advantage and it proved vital as Les Dogues ran out 2-1 victors in the second leg, before a dramatic penalty shootout win earned Villa a spot in the last four.
Emiliano Martinez was the spot-kick-saving hero in that fixture but Emery will have to make do without his preferred goalkeeper. The World Cup winner picked up three yellow cards across the semi-final matches, prompting a one-match ban. He’s also picked up a hamstring strain, making him a doubt for the second leg in Athens.
Youri Tielemans is another with a recent injury as the Belgium international was forced off against Chelsea with a groin issue. Scans have since confirmed the problem isn’t serious but care must be taken to ensure it stays that way.
Including a verdict for Tielemans, the replacement for Martinez and a change of role for captain John McGinn, here’s the starting lineup we predict Emery will name for the first leg against Olympiacos.
5. LB - Lucas Digne
Digne has played lots of football lately but that will have to continue as Alex Moreno is sidelined. The Frenchman will be tested to his limits. | Getty Images
6. RM - Leon Bailey
Bailey has been a changed player this season after a struggle-filled first year or so at Villa Park. The Jamaican is so often the danger man on the right flank. | Getty Images
7. CM - Douglas Luiz
Luiz struggled last time out as Villa failed to control possession but he’ll be keen to bounce back. The Brazilian has been key to Villa’s success in Europe. | Getty Images
8. CM - John McGinn
McGinn played further forward at the weekend but could move into the double pivot. Youri Tielemans’ groin injury isn’t serious but Emery is unlikely to risk the Belgian. | Getty Images