Aston Villa will be hoping to make it seven wins in eight when they take on Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon. Unai Emery’s side have been flying but the Magpies could prove to be a different kettle of fish to the opponents faced over recent weeks.
Only Manchester City can match Newcastle’s record of winning their last five league outings as Eddie Howe and his men are charging toward UEFA Champions League qualification. Villa are full of confidence, though, having beaten the likes of Nottingham Forest, Leicester City, Chelsea and AFC Bournemouth consecutively.
The prospect of a European tour is very much on the cards but it will be games like this that decide whether or not it can be a reality. Chelsea from a few weeks ago may seem like a tough fixture by name, but Newcastle are by far a harder team to face this campaign. This is a real test of where Villa really are after a very promising run.
Emery was hit with an injury concern last weekend as Leon Bailey hobbled off with a hamstring problem, so that will be one guaranteed change to his starting XI. Elsewhere, decisions have to be made for the likes of Matty Cash and Boubacar Kamara who are facing late fitness tests.
With all that in mind, here’s the lineup we think Villa will start with on Saturday to give them the best chance of surprising Newcastle – in a 4-4-2 formation. See below.
5. CB: Tyrone Mings
Been playing so well recently, commanding the back line with an effective offside trap. Adjusting well to Emery’s style of play. | Getty Images
6. LB: Alex Moreno
As it stands, there simply is no way back into the XI for Lucas Digne as Moreno is performing at a very high level. | Getty Images
7. CM: Douglas Luiz
The Brazilian rarely disappoints as he is one of the most consistent performers in the team. Connects the defence and attack effectively. | Getty Images
8. CM: John McGinn
Stays in a deeper midfield position with Boubacar Kamara still a doubt. Has been terrific for months and is a key player under Emery. | Getty Images