Aston Villa aim to overcome their recent Premier League struggles when they host last-place Ipswich Town on Saturday.
The Lions have fallen from European qualification positions to eighth place after failing to win their last three league matches, including a 2-0 loss to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
They seek to close the six-point gap to the Champions League positions against an Ipswich side that continues to struggle. Villa carry momentum from their 2-1 FA Cup fourth-round victory over Tottenham Hotspur last week.
Despite their recent Premier League form, Unai Emery’s squad has excelled in the Champions League, securing automatic qualification for the round of 16. Villa remain undefeated in 11 matches at Villa Park this season.
Ipswich enter following a 4-1 FA Cup fourth-round victory against Coventry, highlighted by Jack Clarke’s two goals. However, they have not won in their last five Premier League matches. Their most recent league victory came in late December, a 2-0 win over Chelsea.
Aston Villa Team News
Villa’s FA Cup victory over Spurs was marred by Ezri Konsa’s injury, though the club remains optimistic about his condition.
Final touches ahead of the weekend ✊ pic.twitter.com/4EzhRjxM4m
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) February 14, 2025
Manager Unai Emery expects to welcome back Tyrone Mings, Ollie Watkins, and Ross Barkley to the squad, as all three players have recovered from their injuries.
Predicted Aston Villa Lineup vs Ipswich Town
Goalkeeper
Emiliano Martinez seeks his first clean sheet in seven matches as Villa face Ipswich Town.
Defence
Lamare Bogarde, who replaced the injured Ezri Konsa against Spurs, might start alongside Boubacar Kamara in central defence. Andres Garcia will make his third consecutive start at right-back, with Lucas Digne continuing at left-back in the Aston Villa lineup.
Midfield
Youri Tielemans and John McGinn will anchor the midfield, with Morgan Rogers operating as the attacking midfielder in the Aston Villa lineup. Rogers, who scored in the FA Cup victory over Spurs, continues to demonstrate strong form.
Attack
Marco Asensio is set for his first Villa start after making his debut as a substitute in the FA Cup. Jacob Ramsey, who also scored against Spurs, will provide attacking support. Ollie Watkins is expected to return as the striker in the Aston Villa lineup after recovering from a two-match injury absence.
