Aston Villa will play their first home game of the season as they will take on Bournemouth this weekend at the Villa Park. Dean Smith’s men started their campaign with a defeat to heavy favourites Tottenham who had to work really hard to get their three points.
The Villa manager would be happy with a strong first-half performance, and he would probably want more from his players for the full 90. It will be a good chance for Villa to showcase how far they have come after a fruitful transfer window as Bournemouth will also look to play an extravagant style of football. In all competitions, this is just the 8th meeting between these two sides with Villa winning four of the previous seven, drawing one and losing two. However, the Cherries are now more of an established team in English football.
Team news: Smith doesn’t have too many injury concerns and almost all his first-team options are available.
Aston Villa Predicted Lineup Vs Bournemouth
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
English keeper Tom Heaton made some crucial saves against Spurs and showed that he is still sharp as ever. He should be preferred in goal over Jed Steer. Tyrone Mings looked bright in the last game, and he is going to be more or less a guaranteed starter at the back. Bjorn Engels also impressed, and he should partner the Englishman in central defence.
This could be a good game to give Matt Targett a start over Neil Taylor who started in the last game. The Southampton man has more experience at the Premier League level, and he should start as the left-back. Ahmed Elmohamady should keep his place on the right side of the defence.
Midfield
Conor Hourihane will start in a deep role in midfield. His major job would be to shield the back four. Further forward, John McGinn will be the engine of the side, and he will look to continue with his good form. Villa captain Jack Grealish will start alongside him, and he will look to link-up play in the attacking third.
Anwar El Ghazi is expected to start on the left flank. The Dutch winger was able to make an impact against Spurs. Trezeguet should get the nod ahead of Jota on the right side.
Attack
Wesley Moraes is likely to start over Jonathan Kodjia up front as the striker. The former Club Brugge player had a tough time against Spurs as they were firm in their challenges. Moraes will have to step up his hold up his game a bit more.
