‘Shamed’ winger axed as Emery starts ‘phenomenal’ attacker - Aston Villa predicted XI vs Brentford

Aston Villa return to Premier League action with a trip to fellow European hopefuls Brentford on Saturday evening.

The Villans head into this clash on the back of successive victories over Cardiff City and Club Brugge in the FA Cup and Champions League but a response in the Premier League is a necessity.

Unai Emery’s side were thrashed 4-1 by Crystal Palace in their last league outing, beaten on the transition on several occasions despite dominating possession at Selhurst Park. Another trip to the capital now awaits and a much better performance is required if Villa are to close the gap to the European spots.

With one extra game played compared to those nearby in the table, Villa are currently four points outside the top five and one point adrift from AFC Bournemouth in seventh. This weekend’s clash is especially important as Brentford are four points behind the Villans and could become extra contenders for Europe if they are to win.

It’s a good time to face the Bees as they are winless in their last six home matches despite winning seven of their first eight this season. Thomas Frank will be looking to correct that concerning record as soon as possible.

Emery has a few selection dilemmas to consider this weekend as a host of players have recently returned from injury, particularly in defence and midfield. It’s a good problem to have but there are many players fighting for the same positions, so Emery needs to ensure the squad’s happiness is maintained while picking the XI he thinks has the best chance of beating the Bees.

Aston Villa predicted lineup vs Brentford

Without further ado, here’s the starting XI we reckon Emery will name at the Gtech Community Stadium.

GK - Emi Martinez: The Argentine hasn’t kept a Premier League clean sheet in his last seven attempts, with the last being the 1-0 win at Everton. The World Cup winner will be desperate to turn the tide.

RB - Matty Cash: The right-back returned off the bench against Club Brugge and played well, providing better width. He should come into the XI to replace Axel Disasi for balance.

CB - Ezri Konsa: So reliable for Villa throughout much of this season, Konsa rarely puts on a poor performance. His versatility has proved to be important.

CB - Tyrone Mings: Arguably the man of the match for his incredible goalline clearance midweek, Mings deserves to keep his place. Pau Torres, meanwhile, will probably be eased in as a substitute following his return from injury.

LB - Lucas Digne: It’s not been easy for Ian Maatsen to watch on but Digne has earned his status as the first-choice left-back. His deliveries into the box so often cause problems for opposition defenders.

CM - Boubacar Kamara: Now back and available following his cameo against Brugge, Kamara is likely to return to the starting XI. It feels harsh to bench John McGinn but Kamara is vital due to his physicality.

CM - Youri Tielemans: The Belgian often prefers playing a little further forward but a deeper role has had to suit recently following the acquisition of Asensio. He’s thrived just as much in the double pivot, in fairness.

RM - Morgan Rogers: The second-most used outfield player this season behind Tielemans, Rogers is so important to Emery’s structure. Leon Bailey, meanwhile, drops out to facilitate Asensio.

LM - Marcus Rashford: Back loving football with a smile on his face, Rashford has been so creative since joining Villa and he’s already formed a brilliant partnership with Asensio.

CAM - Marco Asensio: With a phenomenal five goals in his last four matches, Asensio imply has to start. It’s unfortunate for Bailey after his superb half-volley midweek but the Jamaican was shamed for his poor defensive work.

ST - Ollie Watkins: The England international hasn’t scored in his last four matches but he’s assisted goals in two and remains the best striker at the club. Donyell Malen will have to wait for his opportunity.

In other news, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has been keeping tabs on a Villa midfielder ahead of a potential shock summer swoop.