Aston Villa return to home soil on Thursday evening as they play host to AZ Alkmaar in the UEFA Europa Conference League. Unai Emery’s side can take a huge leap towards qualification for the knockout rounds with a victory but a defeat will let opponents AZ back into the fray.
It was a painful 2-0 loss at Nottingham Forest last time out as Villa weren’t able to mount a comeback after early goals in each half. Plenty of chances were created in the latter stages but the men in claret and blue just couldn’t seem to find the net as shots were repeatedly blasted well over the crossbar.
Returning to Villa Park should help Emery’s team bounce back, however, as the stadium has become a fortress under the Spanish head coach. Confidence will also be taken from the last meeting with AZ, as Villa ran out comprehensive 4-1 victors over in Alkmaar. Here’s our predicted lineup for Thursday’s return clash.
1. GK - Emi Martinez
Emery is bound to give the goalkeeper an instant opportunity to make amends for the huge mistake he made at Nottingham Forest. | AFP via Getty Images
2. RB - Ezri Konsa
Steps into the right-back role to give Matty Cash a rest. Konsa has done well at full-back when called upon this season. | Getty Images
3. CB - Diego Carlos
Returns to the starting XI for the first time since the return leg against AZ in the Netherlands. Most of Carlos’ minutes are expected to come in Europe this term. | AFP via Getty Images
4. CB - Pau Torres
Settling into English football brilliantly, Pau continues to occupy the left centre-back role as the only fit left-footed centre-back. | AFP via Getty Images