Aston Villa are one of the sides who are looking to get themselves promoted to the Premier League. Steve Bruce’s men are placed at the 5th spot in the league table with 44 points to their name after 26 games.
On Saturday, they take on Nottingham Forest at the City Ground and here is how we expect Bruce to place his starting line-up against the Tricky Trees.
Defence
Sam Johnstone has unarguably been an instrumental player for Aston Villa this season. The 24-year-old has clinched 11 clean sheets in 26 appearances for the club and considering his productivity, it is unlikely to see Bruce trifling with his position between the sticks.
At the heart of the defence of the Villans, we expect to see the dup comprising of John Terry and James Chester to be given the nod to start the proceedings. While the latter is expected to be picked over Tommy Elphick, Terry has been very admirable ever since his move from Chelsea. Chris Samba is still sidelined due to his hamstring injury.
At the left-back slot, we anticipate seeing Alan Hutton to start the proceedings and showcase his industry whereas, from the right-back position, Ahmed Elmohamady would be a sensible option to be given the nod to start.
Midfield
Mile Jedinak and Conor Hourihane are seemingly likely to be given the chance to anchor the midfield and keep the side knitted together from the middle of the park. To their left, we expect to see Albert Adomah to start and bring some pace and mobility on the left.
From the right-hand side of the midfield, Robert Snodgrass is expected to start, and it would make perfect sense to see him on the pitch from the very beginning. The 30-year-old has smashed 5 goals and as also registered 6 assists to his name from 21 appearances and should add some sharpness in the final third.
Jack Grealish would probably be the one to play the advanced role to back the striker and create space as well as ample amount of chances for his teammates and frankly speaking, he does have the calibre to do so.
Attack
Scott Hogan should make into the starting line-up at the expense of Keinan Davis. However, he is still doubtful due to his ankle problem which he suffered against Bristol City on the New Year’s day and if he isn’t sanctioned to start, Davis is likely to take his place.
