Unai Emery is anticipated to implement strategic modifications to his Aston Villa starting eleven as they prepare to welcome Brighton & Hove Albion to Villa Park in a crucial Premier League encounter this Wednesday evening.
Villa's Urgent Need for a Positive Result
The Villans are under pressure to secure a victory following a series of underwhelming performances, including a narrow 1-0 home defeat to Brentford and a frustrating 1-1 draw away at AFC Bournemouth. With competitors vying for Champions League qualification gaining momentum, this midweek fixture represents a pivotal opportunity to reclaim form and points.
Fortunately for Aston Villa, the timing could be advantageous as they face a Brighton side mired in a difficult period. The Seagulls have managed just one win in their last twelve Premier League outings, leaving them languishing in 14th position. Brighton's head coach, Fabian Hurzeler, is facing intense scrutiny from supporters, who voiced their discontent during and after a recent 1-0 loss to rivals Crystal Palace.
Expected Defensive and Attacking Adjustments
Emery is likely to recalibrate his lineup, with potential alterations in defence and more probable shifts in the attacking third. Here is the predicted starting eleven for the clash against Brighton.
Goalkeeper and Defence
Emiliano Martinez is set to retain his position between the posts, following a commendable display at Bournemouth. The World Cup-winning goalkeeper remains the undisputed first choice ahead of Marco Bizot.
Matty Cash is expected to start at right-back, having established himself as a dependable component in Emery's tactical framework. His consistency has resolved previous uncertainties in this role.
Ezri Konsa should partner in central defence. Despite occasional lapses this season, Konsa has generally delivered solid performances and will be motivated to help stabilise Villa's backline.
Pau Torres may get the nod at left centre-back over Tyrone Mings, both of whom have experienced recent errors. Torres's ability to distribute the ball effectively from defence could prove decisive.
Ian Maatsen is predicted to replace Lucas Digne at left-back, following Digne's hopeless defending in the match against Bournemouth, which likely warrants his omission from the starting lineup.
Midfield Configuration
Douglas Luiz is poised to anchor the midfield, having adapted impressively despite past struggles. Emery has highlighted Luiz's significant responsibility, especially with Youri Tielemans and John McGinn unavailable.
Amadou Onana is anticipated to partner Luiz in the double pivot, despite fitness concerns. With Boubacar Kamara sidelined for the remainder of the season, Onana's role becomes crucial, provided he maintains his physical condition.
Emiliano Buendia is likely to operate as the central attacking midfielder. The Argentine has emerged as a surprise standout this campaign, displaying moments of brilliance, though consistency remains an area for improvement.
Forward Line Selection
Jadon Sancho is expected to start on the right wing, having shown signs of settling and progress. His recent assist against Bournemouth strengthens his case for inclusion over Leon Bailey.
Morgan Rogers is considered undroppable when fit, having featured in every Premier League lineup this season. Rogers, who netted his eighth league goal in the last outing, is a certain starter on the left flank.
Tammy Abraham might lead the line in a controversial decision, potentially displacing Ollie Watkins. Abraham demonstrated more impact in the Brentford match compared to Watkins's showing at Bournemouth, highlighting the competitive nature of the striker position.
