Aston Villa return to Premier League action this Sunday with a tough away fixture against Leeds United at Elland Road, following the international break.
Unai Emery's side will be looking to build on the momentum from their impressive 4-0 victory over AFC Bournemouth in their last outing. That win, courtesy of goals from Emi Buendia, Amadou Onana, Ross Barkley, and Donyell Malen, has left the Midlands club in a strong position.
They currently sit 6th in the Premier League table, just a single point off the coveted top four after the first 11 fixtures of the season.
Predicted Villa Line-Up: Team News and Changes
Emery is expected to make a couple of strategic adjustments to his starting eleven for the trip to Yorkshire. The international break has brought with it some minor fitness concerns, influencing the manager's potential selections.
In goal, the formidable Emi Martinez is a certainty. Villa's number one, who joined from Arsenal in 2020, remains a key figure and is set to continue between the posts.
The defensive line hopes to welcome back two players who picked up minor issues while on international duty. Right-back Matty Cash (Poland) and centre-back Ezri Konsa (England) both sustained knocks, but neither is believed to be serious. Their availability is a significant boost, with Konsa's recent form for club and country being particularly eye-catching. They are predicted to line up alongside Pau Torres, who provides balance with his left foot, and the experienced Lucas Digne at left-back.
Midfield Shuffle and Attacking Decisions
The most notable change is anticipated in midfield, where Youri Tielemans could come in for Amadou Onana. The Belgian international has been managing muscle tightness, making his inclusion a risk. Introducing Tielemans would be a move to freshen up the engine room alongside the reliable Boubacar Kamara.
Further forward, a big decision awaits on the right wing. Donyell Malen, who finally opened his account for the club with a goal against Bournemouth, could be rewarded with a start. This would see Emi Buendia, often effective as an impact substitute, starting on the bench.
On the opposite flank, John McGinn is expected to start despite helping Scotland secure World Cup qualification in midweek. The attacking midfield role may be handed to Morgan Rogers, who is still seeking his best form this season. Leading the line will be striker Ollie Watkins. Watkins, omitted from the latest England squad, will be well-rested and eager to rediscover his scoring touch.
Full Predicted Aston Villa XI
The complete Aston Villa team expected to face Leeds United is: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Tielemans, Kamara; Malen, Rogers, McGinn; Watkins.
This line-up reflects a blend of consistency and necessary rotation as Villa aim to continue their push towards the Premier League's upper echelons in what promises to be a challenging encounter away from home.
