Despite delivering a headstrong display, Aston Villa failed to script an upset and suffered heartbreak in the EFL Cup final against Manchester City. But they must uplift their Premier League performance to avoid a relegation scare and secure a result on Monday night against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium.
The Foxes, meanwhile, are favourites to clinch a Champions League berth but, at the same time, must overcome their poor run of form having won only once in the past seven league outings. They were also knocked out from the League Cup semis by the Claret and Blue and therefore should be seeking revenge this midweek.
Aston Villa Team News vs Leicester City
The Villans have a couple of significant injury woes with Tom Heaton and Wesley ruled out for the season after rupturing their ACL. Jed Steer, too, is sidelined with a calf strain whereas John McGinn is unlikely to make it for the Leicester game due to an ankle injury. Jack Grealish, however, is tipped to recover in time from a cramp and feature against the former champions.
Aston Villa Formation vs Leicester City
A 3-4-3 did not work out in Villa’s favour in recent weeks, and Dean Smith should opt for a 4-2-3-1 against Leicester as the formation looked more menacing, aggressive and purposeful against the Citizens.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Aston Villa Lineup Vs Leicester City
Goalkeeper
Although Ørjan Nyland was majestic in the League Cup final, the gaffer should bank on the experience of Pepe Reina between the sticks due to his ability to inspire and motivate the team from the last line of defence.
Defence
Tyrone Mings has emerged as a key central defensive resource and must retain his place alongside Bjorn Engels in the heart of the backline. Frederic Guilbert is likely to be lined up as a right fullback, whereas the energetic Matt Targett should get the nod over Neil Taylor in the left-back role.
Midfield
Aston Villa require more physicality, composure and character if a double pivot is considered. Both Douglas Luiz and Marvelous Nakamba have been impressive at times, but the duo must start working as a pair and showcase more aggression deep down the midfield areas.
Trezeguet should be preferred over his compatriot Ahmed El Mohamady from the right-hand side. But the Egyptian must exhibit his directness and work ethics in such a tricky away test. Anwar El-Ghazi is capable of troubling the Foxes with his pace, footwork and cut insides from the left, but the focus will be on Villa’s versatile attacking ace Jack Grealish who needs to be deployed centrally to dictate the game.
Attack
Mbwana Samatta has settled in well since completing his winter switch from Genk. The Tanzanian, therefore, should lead the line once again in the absence of Wesley.
