We’re into the final month of the summer transfer window and things have calmed down for Aston Villa after a hectic beginning.
Philippe Coutinho, Boubacar Kamara, Diego Carlos and Robin Olsen all signed permanent deals with the club within the first six weeks whilst Ludwig Augustinsson joined on loan from Sevilla more recently.
There is belief that Steven Gerrard could yet add more new faces to his squad before the window slams shut on September 1st but if things are to remain as they are, what would Villa’s strongest starting line-up look like?
New signings Kamara and Carlos are clear upgrades and are pretty much guaranteed starts but away from those, arguments could be had across the board for several different positions.
The opening day trip away at Bournemouth will give us the first idea of what Gerrard feels his strongest team is but there is also more of a case for rotation this season, too.
As things stand, here’s what we think the claret and blue’s best starting line-up is for the game with The Cherries and beyond.
1. GK - Emi Martinez
Robin Olsen will prove a more than capable deputy but there’s no dislodging Martinez from his number one spot. | Getty Images
2. RB - Matty Cash
The Polish Cafu is clear choice at right-back for now. | AVFC
3. CB - Diego Carlos
From the handful of centre-backs at the club, Carlos appears to be the only one with his place nailed down. Photo: Malcolm Couzens
4. CB - Ezri Konsa
With the options available, Konsa probably just edges a starting berth. | Getty Images