Aston Villa return to Premier League action on Wednesday evening when they welcome Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds United to Villa Park.
It’s the first time Villa have played a competitive fixture since January 22 due to the South American international break - a break which involved a number of Gerrard’s men jetting off to represent their country.
Emiliano Martinez went off to represent Argentina whilst Philippe Coutinho linked up with Brazil.
And not forgetting Emiliano Buendia, January’s player of the month, who also followed Martinez away with Argentina and was awarded his first ever CAP during the break, capping off an incredible few weeks for Villa’s record signing.
There was of course the now concluded Africa Cup of Nations ongoing during this same period which involved Bertrand Traore and Trezeguet, so whilst there may have been no Premier League football in this time, it has been a busy couple of weeks for some of Gerrard’s men.
Which may make Wednesday evening’s selection more difficult than it arguably would have been.
Here’s the team we think Gerrard will go with to face Leeds United.
9. LW - Philippe Coutinho
Fresh off the back of an absolute worldie he scored for Brazil during the break. One of those wouldn’t go amiss vs Leeds United. Photo: Michael Regan
10. RW - Emiliano Buendia
January’s player of the month continued his fine recent fortune when he made his debut for Argentina in the break. Described by Gerrard as a ‘little terrier.’ | Getty Images
11. ST - Ollie Watkins
Possibly the preferred option over Ings tonight for his energy against a side that won’t stop running. | Getty Images