Aston Villa return to Premier League action this Sunday afternoon as they play host to UEFA Europa Conference League champions West Ham United. In fifth place following a four-game unbeaten streak before the October international break, Unai Emery and his men will be eager to further cement their place in the European spots.
The Hammers, meanwhile, are in seventh, just two points and four goal difference behind Villa. David Moyes has led his team to four wins and two draws in the opening eight fixtures, with a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United the final result before the interval. West Ham have the opportunity to leapfrog Villa with a win this weekend.
Emery will be well aware of the visitors’ threat and is therefore expected to name a very strong starting lineup at Villa Park. With that in mind, here are the 11 players we think will start on Sunday, as well as explanations for each inclusion.
1. GK - Emi Martinez
Villa’s undisputed number one between the sticks remains just that. Martinez will be keen to keep a first clean sheet since the 1-0 win over Zrinjski Mostar.
2. RB - Matty Cash
Played at right midfield at Wolves but we’re expecting Cash to change roles, returning to his usual right-back place.
3. CB - Ezri Konsa
The man with more minutes than anyone else this season, Konsa is one of the first names on the team sheet. Moves back inside to centre-back after playing right-back before the international break.
4. CB - Pau Torres
Made some mistakes last time out but sured up later on in the game and scored his first goal for the club. Just about in there ahead of Diego Carlos.