Aston Villa welcome Manchester United to Villa Park this afternoon, in what is set to be a thriller in the Premier League as both sides seek a Champions League finish.
The last time Unai Emery’s Aston Villa met Manchester United was in a Christmas-time cracker, as Erik ten Hag’s side left it late to win 3-2 at Old Trafford on Boxing Day.
With Villa sitting in 5th and the Red Devils in 6th, it’s set to be a heavyweight battle at Villa Park this afternoon, with the direction of the points having the power to reshuffle the top four.
After Tottenham’s last-gasp win against Brighton on Saturday, the Lilywhites leapfrogged Emery’s side to reclaim 4th, adding to the importance of the clash in Birmingham as United come to town.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, the Villa boss admitted he feels “optimistic” that his side can get the job done after the disappointment of their FA Cup exit midweek against Chelsea.
“On Sunday, I’m optimistic. I know the preparation from minute one to minute 90 and how we have to play the match being very focused, being respectful of them and playing an intelligent match.”
Setting the defeat to the Blues in the previous match at Villa Park aside, Emery has received a boost in the injury department that could significantly bolster his XI against United.
Here’s our predicted line-up for Aston Villa’s Premier League clash against Manchester United at Villa Park…
Aston Villa predicted XI vs Manchester United
Emi Martinez will most certainly remain between the sticks for Villa, despite the Argentine’s position being boosted by the international clearance of January arrival Joe Gauci.
Having returned from the Asian Cup, the Australian shot-stopper could be named in Emery’s matchday squad for the first time following his transfer from Adelaide United.
In defence, changes could come with Lucas Digne reportedly ‘in contention’ to return to the squad after being absent since Boxing Day’s clash with United where he suffered a hamstring injury at Old Trafford.
Previously named as a “very important” asset in the squad by Emery, the Frenchman’s return could see Alex Moreno make way if he is deemed fit enough to feature from the start.
In central defence, the return of Pau Torres could see a switch in personnel at centre-back, as the Spaniard could replace Diego Carlos to partner Clement Lenglet after returning to the fold in midweek.
Matty Cash is expected to keep his position at right-back as a result of Ezri Konsa’s absence.
Despite being unconvincing against Chelsea, the midfield pivot of Douglas Luiz and Boubacar Kamara should be prepared for battle with Casemiro and the in-form Kobbie Mainoo.
To threaten the visitor’s weakened back line after losing Lisandro Martinez to injury, John McGinn should be joined with Leon Bailey on the wings, with a switch behind Ollie Watkins questionably needing to be made.
Youri Tielemans was poor against Chelsea, completing just 12 passes during his 71-minute cameo, calling for Moussa Diaby to be returned to the attack to assist Watkins’ at the front.
Regardless of selection, the stage is set for a thriller at Villa Park as Emery’s side look to bounce back after their FA Cup exit.
