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.
9. LM - Moussa Diaby
This is a decent chance, perhaps, for Emery to experiment with Diaby out wide rather than through the centre. It also allows super John McGinn to have a much-needed rest. | Getty Images
10. CAM/CF - Youri Tielemans
Yes, the European hero we speak of, Tielemans did an extraordinary job playing just in behind Watkins in the reverse tie as he scored and put in an all-round terrific shift. | Getty Images
11. ST - Ollie Watkins
Drew a blank against Luton and Nottingham Forest but is keen to play in every game this season. We’re fully expecting the goals to get back flowing soon enough. | Getty Images