Aston Villa Team News: Harvey Elliott Starts Against RB Salzburg in Europa League
Unai Emery has confirmed his Aston Villa starting lineup for the crucial Europa League encounter against Austrian side RB Salzburg. The manager has made six significant changes from the team that secured a 2-0 victory over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park last Sunday.
Harvey Elliott Returns to the Starting XI
The most notable inclusion is Harvey Elliott, who starts for the first time since the end of September. This decision marks a significant moment for the player, who will be looking to make an impact in European competition.
The confirmed Aston Villa lineup is as follows:
- Goalkeeper: Emi Martinez
- Defence: Lamare Bogarde, Victor Lindelöf, Tyrone Mings, and Lucas Digne
- Midfield: George Hemmings and Amadou Onana in the double pivot
- Attack: Harvey Elliott, Emi Buendia, and Jadon Sancho supporting striker Ollie Watkins
High Stakes for Both Sides in Europa League Clash
Aston Villa begin the evening in the top two of the Europa League league-phase table. A victory tonight would guarantee them home advantage for the second legs in all knockout rounds leading up to the final, a significant tactical boost.
For RB Salzburg, the stakes are equally high. The Austrian outfit must secure a win to keep their hopes alive of finishing in the top 24 and qualifying for the knockout play-offs.
Historical Context and Villa's Home Record
This match marks the first-ever European meeting between Aston Villa and RB Salzburg. Villa's only previous encounters with Austrian opposition came in the UEFA Europa League qualifying rounds against SK Rapid Wien during the 2009–10 and 2010–11 seasons, matches from which they were eliminated.
However, Villa's recent European form at Villa Park provides cause for optimism. Including qualifying matches, they have won 14 of their last 16 home games in European competition, drawing one and losing just one.
The team is now aiming to create history by winning seven consecutive European home games at Villa Park for the very first time.
