Aston Villa are back in action this weekend when they take on Crystal Palace at Villa Park.
Unai Emery’s men have suffered two heavy defeats already this season, but they have also picked up two wins. As is often the case in the early stages, Villa have some things to put right over the coming weeks, especially as they prepare to enter Europe. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace have enjoyed a very solid start, picking up seven points from their first four games despite flirting with relegation trouble last term.
Here we take a look at the likely Villa starting XI for the clash with Palace, and we are backing Emery to return to a back five to add further defensive seciruty amid doubts over Diego Carlos’ involvement through injury.
1. GK - Emiliano Martinez
Martinez is the undisputed starter.
2. RWB - Matty Cash
Matty Cash will play the right-back or right wing-back role, whichever Emery goes for.
3. CB - Ezri Konsa
Konza is likely to start in the heart of defence.
4. CB - Pau Torres
Pau Torres is another likely starter, whether Villa play two centre-backs or three.