Aston Villa vs Leeds United: Predicted Starting XI with Abraham and Cash Return
Unai Emery is grappling with several selection dilemmas as Aston Villa prepare to host Leeds United in a crucial Premier League encounter at Villa Park this weekend. The Villans are targeting back-to-back home league victories, which could temporarily propel them within five points of league leaders Arsenal, especially with the Gunners facing a tough away fixture at Tottenham after their recent stumble at Wolves.
Leeds United's Relegation Battle and Recent Form
Meanwhile, Leeds United find themselves entrenched in a fierce relegation scrap, currently sitting six points above the drop zone occupied by West Ham. Despite their precarious position, the Whites have shown a marked improvement in form since the beginning of December. In fact, only Manchester City and Manchester United have suffered fewer Premier League defeats than Leeds during this period, although they have also drawn the most matches, highlighting their resilience but also a lack of cutting edge.
Aston Villa's Impressive Record Against Leeds and Promoted Sides
Aston Villa boast an impressive unbeaten streak in their last six Premier League meetings with Leeds United. They are also aiming to complete a league double over the Whites for only the second time in the competition's history, a feat last achieved during the 1999-2000 season. Furthermore, under Unai Emery's stewardship, Villa have remained undefeated in all 18 of their Premier League fixtures against newly promoted teams. However, this formidable record will face a stern test on Saturday given Leeds' recent upturn in performances and results.
Team News and Fitness Updates: Matty Cash's Potential Return
Villa manager Unai Emery is scheduled to address the media on Friday afternoon, where he is expected to provide a comprehensive fitness update on key players. Of particular interest is the status of right-back Matty Cash, who has targeted this match for his return after missing the previous fixtures against Brighton and Newcastle due to a minor knee injury. While Villa are hopeful that Cash will be available for selection against Leeds, his participation remains uncertain and will be a game-time decision.
Predicted Aston Villa Starting Lineup and Tactical Decisions
Goalkeeper and Defense: Emi Martinez is anticipated to start between the posts, with Ezri Konsa and Ian Maatsen likely to feature in the defensive line from the outset. However, Emery faces a tough choice at left centre-back, where Tyrone Mings was preferred over Pau Torres in the recent matches against Bournemouth and Brighton.
Midfield and Attack: In midfield, the dynamic duo of Amadou Onana and Douglas Luiz is expected to form the double pivot, providing both defensive solidity and creative impetus. Further forward, Morgan Rogers and Emi Buendia are predicted to operate in advanced roles, possibly with Jadon Sancho occupying the right-wing position. Leon Bailey will provide stiff competition for Sancho on that flank.
Striker Dilemma: Perhaps the most intriguing selection headache for Emery is in the striker position. Tammy Abraham has found the net in both of his starts at Villa Park since rejoining the club, although his first goal was controversially disallowed against Brentford. Emery might opt to retain Abraham in the starting XI as a reward for his recent performances, a decision that could send a motivational message to Ollie Watkins for the weeks ahead rather than allowing him to feel too secure as the undisputed first-choice forward.
Predicted Aston Villa XI vs Leeds United: Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Maatsen; Onana, Luiz; Sancho, Rogers, Buendia; Abraham.
