Aston Villa are losing ground in the race to finish in the playoff spots as they lost to Brentford recently via a late goal from Neal Maupay. The Villans are now seven points away from sixth-placed Middlesbrough, and Dean Smith’s men are going to face West Bromwich Albion next at Villa Park.
West Brom escaped with a draw against Nottingham Forrest last time around as Dwight Gayle earned a late penalty which clearly looked like a simulation. Darren Moore though would take that point, but Gayle could miss out on this tie due to suspension. Both teams met last time in December, and the game ended 2-2.
Team News: Jack Grealish is out with a shin injury. James Chester has been out with a knee injury for several months, and he is expected to miss out once again. Jordan Lyden, Henri Lansbury and Axel Tuanzebe remain long term absentees. Tom Carroll faces a race against time to be fit for this crucial encounter.
Aston Villa Predicted lineup Vs West Bromwich Albion
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
January signing Lovre Kalinić has managed one clean sheet since he came to Villa Park. The Croatian keeper is set to start in goal. Tyrone Mings was a major coup for the club in January as he joined from Bournemouth on loan. He is going to operate in the heart of the defence. Former Brighton and Hove Albion captain Tommy Elphick is expected to partner him at the back.
Versatile defender Kortney Hause is likely to play in the left-back role. The experienced Alan Hutton should start from the right. The back four is going to be tested big time as the Baggies are the highest scoring team in the Championship so far.
Midfield
Veteran Irish international Glen Whelan is likely to play in a deeper role in midfield. His job would be to protect the back four and create a base of attack. John McGinn has become one of the most crucial players in this Aston Villa lineup. He is set to start in a central midfield role. Conor Hourihane is going to be his likely partner in midfield. The midfielder has provided nine assists so far in this campaign.
Down the right flank, Dutch international Ahmed El Ghazi should keep his place. The left wing is set to be occupied by Albert Adomah.
Attack
Chelsea loanee Tammy Abraham has already hit the 20-goal mark, and he is a no brainer to start up top.
