Aston Villa Predicted XI vs Newcastle: Surprise Bizot Decision as Star Dropped
By Charlie Haffenden, Football Journalist. Published 23rd Jan 2026, 17:15 GMT.
Aston Villa's focus returns to the Premier League this Sunday as they travel to face Newcastle United in a pivotal encounter at St. James' Park. Unai Emery's side, fresh from securing a Europa League last 16 spot with a 1-0 victory at Fenerbahce on Thursday, aim to carry that momentum into this challenging away fixture.
However, the task ahead is formidable. Newcastle United have established St. James' Park as a fortress this season, losing only two of their eleven home games. Under Eddie Howe, the Magpies have also won three of their last four Premier League matches, showcasing their resilience and form. Aston Villa, meanwhile, grapple with injury concerns, including key absences like Boubacar Kamara, John McGinn, and Emiliano Martinez, which may test their squad depth.
Despite these setbacks, confidence remains high within the Villa camp. The team is expected to put up a strong fight, with Emery likely to make strategic selections based on recent performances and fitness levels. Here is our predicted starting lineup for Aston Villa against Newcastle United.
Goalkeeper and Defence
GK - Marco Bizot: In a surprising turn, Marco Bizot deserves to retain his starting role, even if Emiliano Martinez returns from injury. Bizot has impressed as a backup goalkeeper, delivering a commanding display in the Europa League. With Martinez still a doubt due to a calf issue and transfer speculation swirling, no change is anticipated here.
RB - Matty Cash: A consistent performer, Matty Cash is one of the first names on the team sheet. He has adapted well to Emery's system, proving to be a reliable asset in defence and attack.
CB - Ezri Konsa: Despite occasional shaky moments, Ezri Konsa has been brilliant for most of the season. Rested midweek, he is eager to maintain his fine form ahead of international commitments.
CB - Tyrone Mings: After a dominant performance against Fenerbahce, Tyrone Mings deserves to start again. Pau Torres may remain on the bench following a recent blunder, highlighting the competitive nature of the squad.
LB - Ian Maatsen: Emery has alternated between Ian Maatsen and Lucas Digne this season. Both have had inconsistent spells, but Maatsen likely gets the nod based on recent contributions.
Midfield and Attack
CDM - Lamare Bogarde: Proving to be a versatile utility option, Lamare Bogarde could start at the base of midfield. If Amadou Onana is fully fit, he might feature, but Bogarde's adaptability makes him a strong candidate.
CDM - Youri Tielemans: Always reliable in various midfield roles, Youri Tielemans has been superb this season. A minor spat with the manager midweek was played down, and his quality remains undoubted.
CAM - Emiliano Buendia: Villa's man of the match in a recent game with a goal and assist, Emiliano Buendia has shown increased confidence. While his decision-making can be questionable at times, his form warrants a starting spot.
RW - Jadon Sancho: Fresh from scoring his first goal for Villa, Jadon Sancho is likely to feature again. Leon Bailey is back from loan but may not start immediately, with McGinn sidelined for weeks.
LW - Morgan Rogers: Undroppable when available, Morgan Rogers has been a standout performer, featuring in every Premier League match this season with seven goals and four assists.
ST - Ollie Watkins: Until a new striker is signed, Ollie Watkins is effectively guaranteed to lead the line. The England international has had mixed form but possesses undeniable ability to impact games.
This predicted lineup reflects Emery's tactical considerations and the squad's current dynamics as Aston Villa prepare for a tough test against Newcastle United in the Premier League.
