Aston Villa went to Old Trafford and came away with a point on Sunday when they held Manchester United to a 2-2 draw.
The newly-promoted side are in 15th in the Premier League table, three points above the relegation zone, but face a tough test on Wednesday when they take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Dean Smith’s team have done well against the top sides, going toe-to-toe with them, but often falling short in the end.
Aston Villa Team News
Anwar El Ghazi was substituted in the game against Manchester United, and will not be available. Jota and Keinan Davis have been out of action for a while, but the former might get a few minutes if not a start.
Right-back Frederic Guilbert will not be eligible for this game as he is serving a one-match suspension.
Let’s take a look at the possible lineup that Smith could put out for Wednesday night’s match:
Predicted Aston Villa Lineup vs Chelsea
Goalkeeper
Tom Heaton should start his 14th league game for Villa on Wednesday night against Chelsea.
Defence
Ezri Konsa looked a little shaky at the back in the game against Manchester United, which could prompt Smith to recall Björn Engels to the backline.
Engels could start at the back alongside Tyrone Mings. Frederic Guilbert’s suspension means that Ahmed Elmohamady will start at right-back, while Matt Targett will retain his place at left-back.
Midfield
The trio of Douglas Luiz, John McGinn, and Conor Hourihane started in the middle of the pitch against Manchester United, and we could see two of those three retain their places in the Aston Villa lineup.
Luiz and McGinn had decent games in the middle of the park, and the latter could trouble Chelsea on the break.
Hourihane could drop out with defensive midfielder Marvelous Nakamba coming into the team in his place. Nakamba’s strength and defensive qualities will be needed against a strong Chelsea midfield.
Attack
The big worry for Smith will be the injury to El Ghazi, who has scored three goals and created four assists in the league this season. Trezeguet could start for Villa on the right side in El Ghazi’s absence.
Jack Grealish scored a wonder goal against Manchester United, and he will start on the left, with Wesley starting as the main striker.
