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.
5. LB - Lucas Digne
The Frenchman is likely to stay in the side as Alex Moreno is back but is likely lacking full match sharpness still. The two may switch in the second half. | Getty Images
6. RM - Leon Bailey
On the fringes of the XI most weeks, Bailey already has three Europa Conference League goals to his name this campaign and will be eager to add to that tally. | Getty Images
7. CM - Douglas Luiz
The king of the midfield at Villa Park, Luiz so often stars on home soil and he’ll be hoping to do so yet again. | Getty Images
8. CM - Boubacar Kamara
In mixed form at the moment but is without doubt the best partner for Luiz in the centre of the park. | Getty Images