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.
9. LM - Nicolo Zaniolo
Shined in Europe for AS Roma and Galatasaray. Now it’s his chance to do the same in claret and blue after a succession of promising showings. | Getty Images
10. CAM/CF - Moussa Diaby
Villa’s record signing has impressed throughout the opening months of the campaign. The Frenchman links up very well with his fellow attackers. | Getty Images
11. ST - Ollie Watkins
The top scorer so far this campaign is enjoying some of the best form of his career to date. We’re also not sure if Jhon Duran’s available after his omission from the squad on Sunday. | Getty Images