Unai Emery is set to welcome back two pivotal figures to his Aston Villa squad as they prepare for a crucial Premier League encounter against Chelsea at Villa Park this Saturday evening. The match, scheduled for an 8pm kick-off, presents a significant challenge for Villa, who are aiming to consolidate their position in the top four.
Defensive Boost and Midfield Returns
The most significant team news revolves around the availability of defender Ezri Konsa and midfielder Jacob Ramsey. Konsa, who has been sidelined with a knee injury, is now back in full training and is in contention to feature. His potential return would be a major boost to a backline that has shown resilience this season.
Meanwhile, Jacob Ramsey is also back in the mix after recovering from a foot problem. His energy and goal threat from midfield have been missed, and his return offers Emery additional options in the engine room. However, long-term absentees Boubacar Kamara, Tyrone Mings, and Emiliano Buendía remain unavailable for selection.
Predicted Starting Lineup and Tactical Setup
Despite the positive returns, Emery is expected to maintain a degree of consistency from the side that performed well in recent outings. In goal, Emiliano Martínez is the undisputed number one and will start between the posts.
The back four is likely to see one change if Konsa is deemed fully fit. The predicted defence is Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Lucas Digne. This would see Konsa partner Torres centrally, with Diego Carlos potentially making way. The full-back positions look settled with Cash and Digne offering width.
In midfield, the partnership of Douglas Luiz and John McGinn is almost certain to continue, providing a blend of defensive solidity and creative drive. Ahead of them, Leon Bailey, Youri Tielemans, and Morgan Rogers are tipped to support the lone striker. Rogers, in particular, has impressed since his arrival and offers a direct goal threat.
Leading the line will be the talismanic Ollie Watkins. The England international is Villa's chief goal source and will be looking to add to his impressive tally against Chelsea's defence.
Substitutes and Impact Players
The returning Jacob Ramsey is likely to begin the match on the bench, providing a powerful option for Emery to introduce in the second half. Other key substitutes will include Jhon Durán, whose physicality can change games, Moussa Diaby for pace, and Clement Lenglet for defensive stability if required. The depth of options highlights the progress Villa have made under Emery's stewardship.
This fixture carries immense weight for Aston Villa's European aspirations. A victory would not only deliver a statement result against a direct rival but also apply pressure on the teams below them in the race for Champions League qualification. All eyes will be on Villa Park to see if Emery's men can rise to the occasion.
