Premier League high-flyers Aston Villa will be looking to get back to winning ways in the competition when they travel to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United this weekend. The Villans are currently sitting in a solid position on the top half of the table, and they have been one of the most in-form teams in the tournament. Despite picking up the odd defeat along the way, Villa haven’t been the easier prey to take out for any of the biggest teams in the competition. Their 7-2 win against reigning champions Liverpool was the perfect indicator of just that. Aston Villa’s most recent outing saw them draw 1-1 against a Chelsea team that is seemingly struggling for momentum.
Team News
The early season injury to Ross Barkley is one that Dean Smith’s side could’ve done without, as the Englishman started the campaign in rather blistering fashion. Not only was he effective in his position in attack, but the sheer influence he had was apparent to see as well. He seemed to be forming a good partnership with Jack Grealish, which was unfortunately cut short quite prematurely. In positive news though, this weekend could see the return of Tyrone Mings, after the big centre-half picked up a red card in the Boxing Day round of fixtures.
Here Is The Predicted 4-2-3-1 Aston Villa Lineup Vs Manchester United:
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Aston Villa Lineup Vs Manchester United
Defence
The Villans made the signing of experienced former Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez in the summer, and it must be conceded that he has done an exceptional job so far. The keeper will keep his place in the side, although they are expected to make some changes in the back-line. Matty Cash and Matt Targett are both likely to continue as the full-backs, with the expected alteration kicking in at the centre of the defence. Tyrone Mings should come back into the side to partner Kortney Hause, which means that Ezri Konsa could drop down to the bench.
Midfield
The two-man midfield pivot that Villa have used this season has been extremely effective, and there’s absolutely no reason for Dean Smith to try and change that in this fixture either. Former Manchester City man Douglas Luiz has arguably been one of their best players since the start of the campaign, and his importance to the team cannot be underplayed. Alongside the Brazilian, expect to see John McGinn operating as the main link between defence and attack, and his long-range striking ability is surely something that United will have to look out for.
Attack
The four-man front-line that started the game against Chelsea on Monday should be given the nod when they face off against United this weekend. Ollie Watkins has been one of the most effective signings in the entirety of the Premier League, while Bertrand Traore has begun to show his quality out wide as well. Anwar El Ghazi seems to be in a blistering run of goalscoring form, and it was his goal that tied things up at Stamford Bridge last time out. Jack Grealish has undoubtedly been the Villans’ most effective player this season, and his place in the side hasn’t really been under question.
