After two back-to-back losses in the Premier League, Aston Villa bounced back with an impressive 3-0 win against Arsenal before the international break. Dean Smith’s men will face Brighton at home on Saturday, and they could climb into the top four with a win.
The Lions have 15 points from seven games and are currently sixth in the Premier League table, with a game in hand over everyone else around them.
The last time these two sides met, the match ended 1-1 at the Amex Stadium. Villa are the favourites heading into this game not just on current form but past form as well, as they haven’t lost the Seagulls in their last 10 meetings.
Let’s take a look at the possible Aston Villa lineup for the game against Brighton.
Aston Villa Team News
Tom Heaton is a doubt for the clash, while forward and Wesley will not be available for this game because of a knee injury. Frederic Guilbert and Bjorn Engels have not recovered from their respective hip and thigh injuries, and will miss the clash as well. The positive news is that Bertrand Traore should return to the Villa squad for the fixture.
Goalkeeper
Tom Heaton is returning to full fitness, but Emiliano Martinez has solidified his place in the Aston Villa lineup, and should be Villa’s no. 1 even after Heaton is fully fit.
Defence
Dean Smith may not make changes to the Aston Villa backline from the last game against Arsenal. Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa should continue as the two centre-backs, while Matty Cash and Matt Targett should play at right-back and left-back, respectively. Ahmed Elmohamady and Neil Taylor are options in the full-back areas for Villa.
Midfield
Douglas Luiz and John McGinn have formed a good understanding in the middle of the park and they should continue for the game against Brighton. Marvelous Nakamba and Conor Hourihane are other options for Villa.
Ross Barkley should continue as the No. 10 in the Aston Villa lineup. The England international has been in good form, and will look to test a shaky Brighton defence.
Attack
Jack Grealish has continued his good club form for his national team as he put up good performances for the England senior team. He should start on the left, while Trezeguet or Anwar El Ghazi could start on the right. Traore is another option for Smith.
Ollie Watkins has been in good form for Villa and he should complete the Aston Villa lineup.
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