Aston Villa vs Leeds United: Predicted Lineup as Cash Injury Decision Made

Aston Villa are set to return to Premier League action this weekend, hosting Leeds United in their first 3pm Saturday kick-off for over a year. The Villans are looking to bounce back from a painful 3-1 defeat to Newcastle United in the FA Cup, where they were eliminated at the fourth round stage despite taking an early lead through Tammy Abraham.

Unai Emery's side now shift their focus back to the league, with an opportunity to close the gap on leaders Arsenal, who dropped points in a midweek draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers. This match presents a crucial chance for Villa to make amends and strengthen their position in the top flight.

Injury Concerns and Team News

Matty Cash remains a significant injury doubt ahead of the clash with Leeds United. The Poland international missed Villa's last outing due to a knee injury and is facing a race against time to be fit. He will be assessed on a day-by-day basis, but his availability is uncertain.

With the Premier League as the top priority, Emery is expected to rotate many of his first-choice players back into the lineup after resting some against Newcastle. This strategic move aims to field the strongest possible side for this important fixture.

Predicted Starting Lineup

Here is how Aston Villa are predicted to shape up against Leeds United:

GK - Emiliano Martinez: The World Cup winner remains the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, especially with Marco Bizot suspended after his red card in the FA Cup.
RB - Lamare Bogarde: With Cash injured, Bogarde could start as a utility option, providing cover in defence.
CB - Ezri Konsa: Villa's number 4 has been mostly brilliant this season and will aim to build strong form ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
CB - Tyrone Mings: Offering physicality, Mings may rotate in for Pau Torres, depending on Emery's tactical preferences.
LB - Ian Maatsen: Likely to get the nod over Lucas Digne, who has been out of form recently.
CDM - Douglas Luiz: The Brazilian has excelled in midfield, taking on increased responsibility in the absence of key players like Youri Tielemans and John McGinn.
CDM - Amadou Onana: Despite fitness concerns, Onana is expected to start in the double pivot, playing a pivotal role with Boubacar Kamara sidelined for the season.
CAM - Emiliano Buendia: The Argentine, linked with Leeds in the summer, is set to rotate back in for Ross Barkley after a standout season.
RW - Jadon Sancho: In a battle with Leon Bailey, Sancho edges into the starting XI as a 'revitalised' attacker, showing improved form.
LW - Morgan Rogers: Undroppable when available, Rogers has started every Premier League match this season and is expected to continue.
ST - Tammy Abraham: Despite an offside call in the last game, Abraham's goal against Newcastle puts him in good form, potentially earning him the start over Ollie Watkins.

This predicted lineup reflects Emery's likely strategy to field a strong, rotated side against Leeds United, aiming for a crucial victory in the Premier League campaign.