Aston Villa head out on the road for their return to Premier League action after the international break, with a tricky trip to fellow European football chasers Chelsea. Although both sides are a way off the top seven, there is still optimism in both camps of a late push.
This could prove to be a vital clash not just for these two teams but others in the fight, with just four points the difference to Brighton & Hove Albion in seventh. The Seagulls do of course have a couple of games in hand, but a positive result on Saturday would certainly boost hopes.
Last time out, The Villans put on one of their best displays yet in the Unai Emery era, thrashing AFC Bournemouth by three goals to nil. Villa Park was rocking as Douglas Luiz, Jacob Ramsey and Emiliano Buendia got on the scoresheet to keep tabs on the Premier League’s top half.
Chelsea, meanwhile, were held to an exciting 2-2 draw against relegation battlers Everton. The Toffees fought back late on to claim a point, inflicting a hammer blow on Graham Potter’s side heading into the fortnight break. The Blues will have had time to regroup, though, so will likely be in good spirits again.
It will no doubt be a very difficult challenge for Villa to face, so we are expecting a very strong lineup to be put out by Emery. With that in mind, here is how we think The Villans’ starting XI will look on Saturday, in a 4-4-2 formation.
5. CB: Tyrone Mings
Undoubtedly ahead of Konsa in the pecking order, so partners up with Carlos at centre-back. | Getty Images
6. LB: Alex Moreno
Stays in the side ahead of Lucas Digne after an assist at West Ham and a wonderful showing in the 3-0 win over Bournemouth. | Getty Images
7. CDM: Douglas Luiz
Was the best player on the pitch against The Cherries and has become one of the first names on the team sheet. | Getty Images
8. CDM: Boubacar Kamara
Albeit only back in full training recently, we think Emery will bring one of his key men back in. Kamara’s bond with Luiz is strong. | Getty Images