On Sunday afternoon, Aston Villa will play their first away game in the Premier League when they take on Tottenham Hotspur.
Unai Emery’s team is in excellent form and will be keen to maintain their momentum as they sit in fifth place with the opportunity to pass their opponents and enter the top four.
Spurs had been undefeated and leading the league, but after two straight losses, they have started to falter. However, Emery will be extremely cautious because Ange Postecoglou’s side still poses a serious threat.
Because both teams play with a daring offside trap and can occasionally be caught off guard on the transition, this matchup has the potential to be one of the most exciting of the season on paper.
In light of this, we believe Villa will field a very strong starting lineup at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, even if it means taking a chance on players who have suffered minor injuries while playing for their country.
1. GK – Emi Martinez
As a recent Yashin award winner, there’s very few in the world who could replace Martinez, let alone anyone in the Villa squad.
2. RB – Matty Cash
A doubt with a knock but should be fine to play. Has been much improved under Emery, particularly this season.
3. CB – Ezri Konsa
One of the most consistent players in the squad and recently earned his first England call-up. Not under any threat for his position.
4. CB – Pau Torres
Has been an outstanding signing so far, especially for his passing out from the back. The Spaniard makes things look so comfortable.
5. LB – Alex Moreno
Bold perhaps to bring him straight in without any minutes but Emery’s recent comments suggest Moreno is ready and raring to go.
6. RM – John McGinn
Was taken off with an apparent injury during the international break but it looked to be largely precautionary. If McGinn is fit, he should play.
7. CM – Douglas Luiz
So often the best player on the pitch for Villa, there’s no dropping Luiz. His relentless energy as a box-to-box could be vital yet again on Sunday.
8. CM – Boubacar Kamara
Proven himself as Luiz’s best partner in midfield and is a fantastic player in his own right. Starting to improve his passing range, too, which is great to see.
9. LM – Youri Tielemans
Has only played as a left midfielder on five occasions throughout his career but Emery tried it against Fulham and it worked brilliantly. This could be Tielemans’ way into the team.
10. RF – Moussa Diaby
The record signing has been firing on all cylinders in training throughout the internatioinal break and will be eager to get back into competitive action.
11. LF – Ollie Watkins
Villa’s top Premier League scorer this season with six and has a good record against Spurs (two goals and one assist in six meetings).
