Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is weighing up several crucial selection choices ahead of his side's Premier League trip to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
Villa's formidable form faces Chelsea test
The visitors arrive in London riding a wave of incredible momentum. Villa have won their last ten matches in all competitions, including a significant victory over Manchester United last time out. In the league, they are on a run of seven consecutive victories. The last time the club enjoyed a longer winning streak in the top flight was over a century ago, between October and December 1910.
This formidable form has propelled Villa into a strong position in the table. Chelsea, currently sitting fourth, trail Emery's men by seven points after dropping points against Newcastle United. Historically, the Villa boss has enjoyed success against the Blues, with his side winning three of their five Premier League meetings since his arrival.
Emery's key selection dilemmas
Emery's main decisions revolve around managing his squad through a busy festive period, with a trip to Arsenal following just three days after the Chelsea fixture. Goalkeeper Emi Martinez is expected to retain his place after returning to the starting lineup against Manchester United.
The defence is likely to see Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Victor Lindelof and Lucas Digne form the back four. While Ian Maatsen has started the last four league games, the Dutch full-back could be rested with the Arsenal match in mind. Long-term absentees Pau Torres and Tyrone Mings are nearing returns but this weekend's game is expected to come too soon for the pair.
Midfield and attack decisions
In midfield, the robust pairing of Boubacar Kamara and Amadou Onana is predicted to operate in the double pivot, with Youri Tielemans granted licence to play in a more advanced role. Captain John McGinn and the in-form Morgan Rogers are tipped to provide support from the wide areas.
The major question mark hangs over striker Ollie Watkins. The England forward has been managing a minor knee issue, and with the short turnaround between fixtures, Emery must decide whether to risk him from the start at Stamford Bridge. This situation could open the door for summer signing Donyell Malen, who is reportedly in contention for a starting berth in one of the next two matches.
Predicted Aston Villa starting XI vs Chelsea: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Lindelof, Digne; Kamara, Onana; McGinn, Tielemans, Rogers; Watkins.
