Aston Villa return to competitive action for the first time in two weeks as they play host to Leicester City in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon. Unai Emery’s side head into the clash with plenty of confidence having won their last two outings - against Leeds United and Southampton.
The Villans are now way clear from the relegation battle and see themselves looking up the table rather than down; a refreshing shift for supporters. Just a single point separates the Lions from the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool, with only three points the gap to the top six.
Leicester, meanwhile, are preparing themselves to fight the drop as they are just one point above the bottom three. Brendan Rodgers has really struggled to get his talented squad to click this term, with just five wins accumulated in 20 games. Having lost four of their last five, things are beginning to get desperate.
As long as Emery’s men can match their recent performances, a comfortable win could well be on the cards. The Foxes still have plenty of dangerous players, however, so the starting XI will need to remain strong. With that in mind, here is how we think Villa will line up on Saturday. See below.
1. GK: Emiliano Martinez
The World Cup hero is always going to play when fit.
2. LB: Alex Moreno
Controversial perhaps, but we think the new man fits Emery’s system better than Lucas Digne.
3. CB: Tyrone Mings
Rather everpresent for Villa at the moment. Adjusting well to playing out more from the back.
4. CB: Ezri Konsa
Will be looking over his shoulder at Diego Carlos but stays in for now, while the Brazilian makes his way to fitness.