Aston Villa head abroad for their second UEFA Europa Conference League away day of the season as they take on AZ Alkmaar on Thursday evening.
Unai Emery’s side are full of confidence after Sunday’s 4-1 win over West Ham United but will be wary of AZ’s threat as they sit second in Eredivisie, just two points off leaders PSV Eindhoven.
Group E is looking incredibly tight ahead of this week’s fixtures, with just goals scored separating all four teams. Villa are bottom based on that statistic but could soar to first with a win.
With this clash probably the toughest of all the group games, here’s the very strong lineup we predict Emery will field at AFAS Stadium.
1. GK - Emi Martinez
It’s unlikely Emery will rotate Martinez out for Robin Olsen, even with the change of competition.
2. RB - Ezri Konsa
Often slots in at right-back when Emery makes slight rotations. Matty Cash hasn’t done anything wrong but this change allows for a defensive change.
3. CB - Diego Carlos
Comes back into the XI after being benched on Sunday. A true battler, Carlos has impressed since returning from his lengthy injury.
4. CB - Pau Torres
Will likely play most games this season, no matter the competition, due to Tyrone Mings’ injury.