Aston Villa will head into the final game of the season against West Ham United, level on points with 18th place Watford, but ahead on goal difference.
The Villans have a precarious one-goal advantage over Watford, but have their destiny in their own hands. The Hammers, on the other hand, are safe and don’t have anything to play for on Saturday.
If Villa win, they will most likely be safe, considering Watford play Arsenal at the Emirates – a tougher fixture than Aston Villa.
Dean Smith’s men are in good form, undefeated in their last three Premier League games. They head into this game with a lot of confidence having between Arsenal 1-0 last time around.
Aston Villa Team News: Tom Heaton and Wesley are long-term absentees and will miss the game, while Bjorn Engels will also be unavailable for the Aston Villa lineup.
Ahmed El Mohamady suffered a hamstring injury in the win against Arsenal, and will miss the game. Neil Taylor could return to the squad.
Let’s take a look at how Aston Villa could line up in this very crucial final game of the season against West Ham United.
Predicted Aston Villa Lineup vs West Ham United
Goalkeeper
Pepe Reina will continue in goal for Aston Villa, and considering West Ham have been in good form he could have a few important saves to make later today.
Defence
Frederic Guilbert, who came on for the injured Ahmed El Mohamady last time around, should start against West Ham at right-back, which will be his first start since March.
The rest of the backline should be unchanged with Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings playing in central defence, and Matt Targett starting at left-back kin the Aston Villa lineup.
Midfield
Dean Smith may not want to change the balance that he seems to have found in midfield with the trio of Douglas Luiz, John McGinn, and Conor Hourihane.
The three midfielders should continue in the middle of the park. Smith has the likes of Henri Lansbury and Marvelous Nakamba to call upon from the bench, if needed.
Attack
Captain Jack Grealish should continue on the left side of attack, in what could be his very last game for Villa, if he leaves the club in the summer.
Trezeguet, who scored the all-important goal against Arsenal, should start on the right side. Mbwana Samatta should lead the line for Villa against West Ham United and will want to break his 10-game goal drought.
