Aston Villa have a mountain to climb as they take on Olympiacos in Athens this Thursday, but it’s a hike Unai Emery and his players are confident they can accomplish.
The Villans head into the second leg of the Europa Conference League semi-final two goals down following a shock 4-2 defeat at Villa Park last week. It’s going to be a huge challenge to overcome that deficit, especially when over 2,000 miles from home, but stranger things have happened.
It was a narrow 1-0 loss away at Brighton & Hove Albion last time out as Emery’s men looked drained, both mentally and physically. It took João Pedro’s 87 minutes to claim the points for the Seagulls but it would’ve been a far worse day if it wasn’t for the immense goalkeeping of Robin Olsen.
One big selection talking point this midweek - arguably the biggest - is whether Emiliano Martinez returns between the sticks. The Argentine missed the trip to Brighton but only just, as his hamstring injury isn’t serious. He’s travelled with the squad but Villa shouldn’t threat if Martinez can’t play as Olsen more than proved his worth at the Amex.
Another area of uncertainty is at wide midfield as Morgan Rogers went off injured at Brighton, while Nicolo Zaniolo wasn’t passed fit. Emery must decide if he’s willing to take risks with any or several of his injury doubts.
Including the dilemmas mentioned and others, here’s the Villa starting lineup we predict will be named at Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium.
5. LB - Lucas Digne
Digne looked knackered at the weekend but his experience could be so important in Athens. Alex Moreno, meanwhile, isn’t quite at full fitness. | Getty Images
6. RM - Leon Bailey
Bailey has been a changed player this season after a struggle-filled first year or so. The Jamaican is so often the dangerman on the right flank. | Getty Images
7. CM - Douglas Luiz
Luiz was one of the better players in the defeat against Brighton after a poor display against Olympiacos. He’s got the perfect chance to respond here. | Getty Images
8. CM - John McGinn
McGinn might be utilised in the midfield double pivot again with Tielemans in a different role. The skipper is made for nights like these. | Getty Images