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.
5. LB - Lucas Digne
Could soon be looking over his shoulder at Alex Moreno but has started the season brilliantly and deserves to stay in the side for a while longer. | Getty Images
6. RM - John McGinn
Seems to work best out on the right as he has more freedom to express himself. McGinn is so often one of the hardest working players on the field. | Getty Images
7. CM - Douglas Luiz
Another player who simply can’t be dropped, Luiz will be eager to win a tough midfield battle against James Ward-Prowse, Edson Alvarez and Tomas Soucek. | Getty Images
8. CM - Boubacar Kamara
Proven to be a lot better of a counterpart to Luiz than Tielemans. Until that changes, Kamara should start consistently. | Getty Images