Aston Villa will host the first Premier League match on Wednesday, when the league finally resumes, and will take on Sheffield United.
The two promoted sides have had contrasting fortunes this season, with Villa involved in a relegation scrap, while the Blades are in contention for a spot in next season’s Europa League.
When the two sides met earlier in the season, Sheffield United won 2-0, thanks to a brace from John Fleck. Villa desperately need a win as they are currently in 19th position, and a win will take them out of the relegation zone.
Villa head into this game on a poor run of form, having their last four Premier League games, though it doesn’t really count considering the lengthy hiatus.
Aston Villa Team News
The break came at a good time for midfielder John McGinn, who was set to miss a large chunk of the season. He should return to the Villa squad, but goalkeeper Tom Heaton, and striker Wesley, will miss the game. Jed Steer should also return to the squad.
Let’s take a look at the possible Aston Villa lineup against Sheffield United:
Predicted Aston Villa Lineup vs Sheffield United
Goalkeeper
Pepe Reina, who is currently on loan from AC Milan, should continue in goal in the absence of Heaton.
Defence
Tyrone Mings should start in defence for Aston Villa, but it will be interesting to see who plays alongside him in central defence.
Bjorn Engels, Kortney Hause, and Ezri Konsa are all in the running for the centre-back role. Engels might edge the two young defenders to start once again alongside Mings.
Matt Targett should keep his place at left-back, while Frédéric Guilbert will also most likely start at right-back.
Midfield
Manager Dean Smith has numerous options in midfield. Marvelous Nakamba will start in the defensive midfield position, while the returning John McGinn will start ahead of him in central midfield.
Smith could play his star player Jack Grealish, in the wide left position, and add solidity to the central midfield area with Douglas Luiz.
Attack
Grealish could start on the left, while Anwar El Ghazi could start on the opposite flank. January signing, Mbwana Samatta, will start as the sole striker in this Aston Villa side.
