Aston Villa take on Patrick Vieira’s Crystal Palace on Sunday as they look to bounce back from the narrow 2-1 defeat to title chasing Liverpool.
Steven Gerrard’s men were able to match the Reds for large parts of the midweek clash and it was a performance that left the boss feeling ‘extremely proud’ despite being on the wrong end of the scoreline.
The first 45 minutes especially looked to be the perfect blueprint of the style of football Gerrard wants to implement at Villa Park. It was fast-paced, high-pressing and above all else - extremely committed.
Marvelous Nakamba’s return to the starting eleven after several months out with injury seemed to be a big difference maker with the claret and blue suddenly looking far more compact in the middle of the park.
Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings again looked a real threat in a partnership - though the former may miss out against Palace after being replaced with a knock late on in the defeat to Liverpool.
With that in mind, here’s the starting eleven we believe Gerrard will go with to get the three points from the Eagles.
1. GK - Emiliano Martinez
No shockers in the goalkeeper department. Next. | Getty Images
2. RB - Matty Cash
Probably the most reliable player under Gerrard since his arrival and he’ll keep his place versus Palace. | Getty Images
3. CB - Tyrone Mings
Was the worst performer against Liverpool for me but think Gerrard will give his captain a nod of approval and start him again here. | Getty Images
4. CB - Calum Chambers
Whilst Mings keeps his place, I do expect a change in the back four and think Chambers will come in for Ezri Konsa. | Getty Images