Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has crucial injury decisions to make ahead of Sunday's Premier League encounter with Everton at Villa Park. The fitness of key duo Emiliano Martinez and Boubacar Kamara will be assessed late, potentially disrupting Emery's plans for a match where his side aims to make history.
Villa Chase Historic Home Record Against Toffees
The Villans return to their fortress this weekend, looking to extend a remarkable run of 11 consecutive home victories. A win against Everton would make it a dozen, breaking a significant club record in the process. Confidence is high following a comfortable 2-1 FA Cup victory away at Tottenham Hotspur, a match where Emery wisely rotated his squad, resting stars like Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins.
Despite their strong form, Everton present a tricky challenge. Managed by David Moyes, the Toffees are positioned in mid-table and, while they have struggled for goals recently—netting just five in their last five league outings—their unpredictable nature demands respect. Emery is sure to have his side fully prepared for a disciplined battle.
Injury Concerns Cloud Emery's Selection
The main talking point in the build-up revolves around the treatment room. Boubacar Kamara's knee injury is a significant blow, with the midfielder expected to miss two to three weeks. Meanwhile, World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is a doubt with a calf problem, though it is considered minor.
For the visitors, Amadou Onana and Ross Barkley remain sidelined. Aside from the Kamara and Martinez situations, Emery otherwise has a fully-fit squad to choose from, giving him flexibility in his tactical approach.
Predicted Aston Villa Starting Lineup
With those factors in mind, here is the starting XI Unai Emery is likely to name against David Moyes's Everton.
GK - Emiliano Martinez: The Argentine number one is an automatic starter when fit. His calf issue will be tested, but given its minor nature, he is expected to reclaim his spot. Deputy Marco Bizot has performed admirably and is on standby.
RB - Matty Cash: Now a firm favourite and one of the first names on the team sheet, Cash has developed into a reliable and consistent asset in Emery's system.
CB - Ezri Konsa: Despite the occasional shaky moment this season, Konsa has been largely brilliant and will be eager to maintain his fine form.
CB - Pau Torres: Having completed 90 minutes against Spurs after his return from injury, the Spanish defender is ready to resume his regular starting role, likely at the expense of Victor Lindelof.
LB - Ian Maatsen: The left-back position has seen rotation between Maatsen and Lucas Digne. Maatsen's superior pace could give him the edge for this particular fixture.
CDM - Lamare Bogarde: With Kamara injured, Bogarde's versatility and utility are set to be utilised at the base of midfield. He has proven to be a capable deputy.
CDM - Youri Tielemans: The ever-reliable Belgian may slot into a deeper pivot role alongside Bogarde, especially with international teammate Onana absent for Everton.
CAM - Emiliano Buendia: Fresh from a man-of-the-match display against Spurs, where he registered a goal and an assist, Buendia is in prime position to start again in an advanced role.
RW - John McGinn: The club captain, in a rich vein of form, is expected to continue on the right flank, a role he has adapted to with typical tenacity.
LW - Morgan Rogers: Effectively undroppable, Rogers has featured in every Premier League game this season, contributing seven goals and four assists. His place is assured.
ST - Ollie Watkins: With Donyell Malen poised for a move to Roma, Watkins is Villa's undisputed central striker. The club's pursuit of Tammy Abraham is ongoing, but for now, the England forward will lead the line.
