Aston Villa will face off against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening as they hope to pull off a major upset on their travels. The Villans could only manage to grind out a 1-1 draw versus Brentford last weekend but they can expect a much tougher outing when they travel to West London this weekend.
Dean Smith could choose to opt for the 4-3-3 formation but will be forced to make some changes as some of his first-team players won’t be available for this clash. We can expect to see Tyrone Mings get a start in the injury absence of Ezri Konsa while Kortney Hause offers cover on the bench.
4-3-3 Aston Villa Predicted Lineup To Face Chelsea
Defence
Emiliano Martinez won’t be a part of this game due to the ‘five-day rule’ under FIFA Regulations. Hence, Jed Steer will get the nod to operate in between the sticks for the Villans. Axel Tuanzebe could get a chance to impress alongside Tyrone Mings at the heart of Smith’s defence. The defensive pair will try to keep a good defensive shape at the back and restrict the Chelsea attackers from creating too many chances on the counter.
Matt Cash should get another start at right-back while Matt Targett looks to put in an energetic display as the left-back. Smith will ask both of them to not give the Chelsea wide players too much space out on the flanks.
Midfield
The Villans’ midfield could be comprised of Douglas Luiz, Marvelous Nakamba and John McGinn as they focus on making life difficult for the opposition at the centre of the park. All three of them will have to work tirelessly to cover a lot of ground in midfield so that they can stop Chelsea from getting a stranglehold in the game.
Aaron Ramsey might offer cover for the midfield positions on Smith’s bench.
Attack
Ashley Young could operate as the left-sided wide player. If Bertrand Traore can pass a late fitness test, he will function down the right flank and hope to put his pace to good use in the final third. Danny Ings has been Aston Villa’s best player this season, so he is guaranteed to lead the line for them up top.
Ollie Watkins will have to settle for a place on the bench but could come on to influence the game as a second-half substitute if needed.
