The form of the Claret and Blue epitomizes the season of unpredictability as they thrashed Liverpool, Arsenal and Leicester City but suffered successive home defeats against the likes of Brighton, Southampton and Leeds. Dean Smith’s Aston Villa would be aiming for some consistency now before their trip to East London to lock horns with West Ham United on Monday night.
The Hammers, meanwhile, are enjoying an impressive run under David Moyes. They have exhibited composure and also resilience against high-profile opponents in earlier gameweeks. These two outfits’ previous meeting at the London Stadium was decisive for the Villans when they had to clinch at least a point to escape relegation in the final fixture of the 2019-20 season. The cagey contest ended 1-1 and the visitors earned the occasion of another Premier League visit this term.
4-3-3 Aston Villa Predicted Lineup To Face West Ham United
Defence
Villa, once again, underwent a busy summer with several new signings. But they splashed the cash wisely this year to fix the shortcomings and the arrival of Emiliano Martinez brought them stability between the sticks amid the long-term injury woe of Tom Heaton. The Argentine has been brilliant so far and would look to maintain his mastery once more.
They got a pretty stable ‘back four’ too with standout Tyrone Mings pairing up with young Ezri Konsa in the heart of the backline. Summer recruit Matty Cash has cemented his place down the right-back slot, whereas ex-Saints prodigy Matt Targett has been given the nod over veteran Neil Taylor on the left. The return of Frédéric Guilbert, Kortney Hause and Bjorn Engels would inject some competition during the festive season.
Midfield
Smith, so far, has preferred a double pivot deep down the midfield. But they might switch to a 4-3-3 in the absence of Ross Barkly (who suffered a hamstring strain early on against Brighton) and rely on Douglas Luiz, John McGinn and Conor Hourihane from the centre of the pitch. Luiz must hold the shape from his deep-lying role, whereas Hourihane and McGinn should carry the ball forward and operate in the advanced areas.
Attack
Aston Villa have a majestic frontline and is expected to retain the same against West Ham. Jack Grealish would once again threaten the Irons with his pace, flair and swift skills from the right-hand flank. Ollie Watkins has adjusted well following his move from Brentford and should spearhead the attack in an attempt to find the net more often. Trézéguet is likely to keep his place while Bertrand Traore is still nursing a knock endured against the Seagulls.
