Aston Villa will travel to St. James’ Park on Friday to face Newcastle United, and they will hope to move above Liverpool in the Premier League table.
The away side have not been in good form lately, drawing two, losing two, and winning one of their last five Premier League games. In the reverse fixture, Aston Villa eased to a 2-0 win at Villa Park.
Dean Smith’s side will be the favourites going into this game, as they have a far stronger squad, while the home side have been in poor form.
Aston Villa Team News
Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish is a doubt for this game, having missed the last few games due to an ankle injury. Wesley has returned to training, but he is unlikely to start. Kortney Hause will also miss the game.
All 👀 on Wesley's return to full training. 🔋 pic.twitter.com/fIj9mIC68d
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) March 11, 2021
Anwar El Ghazi and Bertrand Traore both missed training in the lead up to the game, while striker Ollie Watkins was also not present in training, although there’s no indication that he has been injured. Matty Cash is available again, and should return to the squad.
Morgan Sanson sustained a knock in the last game, but he should be available for the game against Newcastle United.
Let’s take a look at the potential Aston Villa lineup for the game against Newcastle United.
Predicted Aston Villa Lineup vs Newcastle United
Goalkeeper
Emiliano Martinez should continue in goal for Aston Villa. His consistency in between the sticks means he is one of the first names on the Aston Villa teamsheet.
#ThrowbackThursday, starring Bertrand Traoré. 😍 #NEWAVL pic.twitter.com/JXD5czXIkB
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) March 11, 2021
Defence
The same defence that played against Wolves should start against Newcastle United. Tyrone Mings, Ezri Konsa, Ahmed Elmohamady and Matt Targett should start at the back for the Villans. Although Cash is back, it’s unlikely he will be drafted into the Aston Villa lineup.
Midfield
Douglas Luiz is expected to take his place at the base of midfield for Aston Villa, while John McGinn should play ahead of the Brazilian.
Predicted Aston Villa Lineup vs Newcastle United
Morgan Sanson made his first start for Villa last time around against Wolves, and he could continue in the Jack Grealish role in the Aston Villa lineup. Ross Barkley is another option for manager Dean Smith in that role.
Attack
Ollie Watkins should continue upfront for the Villans if he is fit and available. Anwar El Ghazi is likely to feature on the left flank.
Bertrand Traore should start on the right side of attack for Villa against Newcastle United and complete the Aston Villa lineup.
