Aston Villa predicted starting line-up for Premier League opener away at Bournemouth
We’re just over 48 hours away from Aston Villa’s Premier League campaign getting underway!
Aston Villa travel to Premier League newcomers Bournemouth for their opening game of the 2022/23 season.
After a busy summer at Villa Park, a number of new signings will make their competitive debuts for the club including Diego Carlos and Boubacar Kamara who are both expected to be nailed on starters throughout the new campaign.
The rest of the team may throw up a few more question marks, though.
Tyrone Mings, fresh off the back of being stripped of the captaincy in favour of John McGinn, finds himself in the peculiar position of not being guaranteed a start for the first time in his Villa career.
Elsewhere up the top end of the pitch and Steven Gerrard finds himself in a similar position to last season - there’s plenty of talent - but has anyone really done enough throughout pre-season to cement their spot?
There will be a few interesting calls made for the Bournemouth game and maybe even a decision or two that come as a shock to some.
In the meantime, though, here’s the starting eleven we believe Gerrard starts with come 3PM on Saturday.
1. GK - Emi Martinez
Pretty much guaranteed to start.
2. RB - Matty Cash
Cash is no doubt the first choice right-back though young Kaine Kesler-Hayden is pushing him.
3. CB - Diego Carlos
Carlos’ position in the heart of defence appears nailed on, it’s who partners him that will be interesting. Photo: Malcolm Couzens
4. CB - Ezri Konsa
There’s a three-way battle for this one remaining spot between Konsa, Mings and Chambers and it’s a case of take your pick. Konsa could edge it.