Aston Villa raised quite a lot of eyebrows with their transfer market activity this summer. The newly-promoted outfit dished out almost €150 million on new signings. So naturally, they are one of the teams worth looking for in this new edition of the Premier League.
And in this article, we will figure out the strongest possible lineup for Aston Villa as they look to retain their top-flight status by the end of this campaign.
Formation: 4-1-4-1
Defence
Tom Heaton started in the defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. He is marginally a better option than Lovre Kalinic given his experience in English football.
Ahmed Elmohamady is likely the strongest option at right-back, though Aston Villa don’t necessarily have a lot of depth in that position. On the opposite flank, however, Matt Targett should get the nod ahead of Neil Taylor. But, the ex-Southampton certainly needs to improve on his performances.
The centre-back pairing will comprise of the returning Tyrone Mings and new signing Bjorn Engels. Mings showcased excellent work-ethic in the defeat to Spurs and will be a key component for the Villa throughout this season.
That being said, James Chester, Kourtney Hause and Ezri Konsa are also viable alternatives at the heart of Villa’s four-man backline.
Midfield
Marvelous Nakamba hasn’t exactly had a good year so far. But, the Zimbabwean international could surely be a better outlet in the holding midfield role than Conor Hourihane, provided he can play to his full potential. Hourihane, is, however, the safest option for now.
Club captain Jack Grealish is a guaranteed starter in the two advanced midfield slots along with another top performer in John McGinn. The latter will operate in a slightly withdrawn role while Grealish will be in charge of providing the creative essence in the final third. His passing will also be crucial for Villa’s ball retention.
These two players will be backed up by Henri Lansbury and new signing Douglas Luiz.
Attack
Marquee signing Mahmoud Trezeguet is currently the strongest option at Dean Smith’s disposal when it comes to the wider attacking position. He will occupy the right-wing slot, with Anwar El Ghazi featuring on the opposite flank. However, the Dutchman could face stiff competition from Jota, who can play on both flanks.
And finally, the Aston Villa attack will be spearheaded by record signing Wesley Moraes. Jonathan Kodija is the back-up, should the Brazilian struggle to perform in the Premier League.
