Aston Villa have the opportunity to break into the Premier League top four as they travel away to Nottingham Forest on Sunday afternoon. In outstanding form with five wins in their last six matches, the Villans are just one point behind Liverpool and two behind high-flying Manchester City and Arsenal.
Unai Emery has made sure to stay grounded when asked about his side’s chances of earning a Champions League place, however, the reality shows it could be a genuine possibility. There’s still so much of the season to go and there are plenty of other teams in the mix, but a five-point buffer to sixth offers lots of hope.
Winning at Forest would be huge for Villa as they look to extend the gap to the likes of Newcastle United, Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester United. It’s a good time to play Steve Cooper’s team, too, as they’ve won just two of their opening 10 fixtures. Forest have also failed to claim all three points in any of their last five.
The City Ground is a very tough place to go, though, and Emery will be very aware of that. As a result, we’re expecting the Villans to put out a very strong lineup on Sunday, even with the UEFA Europa Conference League clash to come on Thursday. Click through the pages to see the 11 players we reckon will start this weekend.
1. GK - Emi Martinez
Now a Yashin Award winner, Martinez has officially been named the world’s best goalkeeper for 2023. It’s safe to say he’s not being replaced any time soon.
2. RB - Matty Cash
The fixture congestion is racking up but Cash is in top form and should start again at right-back.
3. CB - Ezri Konsa
Likely to be in from the start for a tough trip to the City Ground. One of the most consistent performers this season.
4. CB - Pau Torres
Has settled into English football brilliantly and continues to occupy the left centre-back role left void by the injured Tyrone Mings.