Aston Villa vs. Leeds: Predicted XI
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Aston Villa host Leeds United on Friday evening, as Dean Smith’s side look to keep up their perfect start to the season, making it five victories on the bounce.
A win would take Villa to the top of the Premier League table for the first time since October 2001, giving them a huge incentive to pick up all three points.
Here’s how we think Smith will line-up his team at Villa Park…
Emiliano Martinez
Tom Heaton may be edging towards full fitness again, but he will have a hard time replacing Martinez in Villa’s goal.
The former Arsenal man has made an excellent start to the season and will hope that continues on Friday evening.
Matty Cash
Cash is looking a really astute signing from Nottingham Forest, making the right-back spot his own.
His steady influence will again be key against a high-octane Leeds outfit.
Ezri Konsa
Konsa has been a real standout for Villa so far this season – he has such a bright future ahead of him.
The youngster’s partnership with Tyrone Mings will hopefully continue to grow against Leeds.
Tyrone Mings
Mings is the leader of this Villa defence and he will again marshal the troops on Friday night.
He is growing all the time in the role.
Matt Targett
Like Cash, Targett has been a model of consistency at full-back this season, playing every minute of Premier League action.
There is simply no need to give him a rest, following five days without a game.
Douglas Luiz
Luiz has been a vital component of Villa’s well-balanced midfield, breaking up play and allowing other to thrive further forward.
His disruptive influence could be key against a Leeds side who play at a high tempo, nullifying their attacking threat in the process.
John McGinn
McGinn has admitted he feels back to his sharpest and his place in the starting lineup is not even up for debate currently.
The Scot will again be looking to knit things together in the middle of the park against Leeds.
Ross Barkley
Barkley has overcome a knee problem and is fit for the game, acting as a huge boost.
Two goals in two Premier League appearances for Villa’s new signing – can he make it three in three?
Trezeguet
Trezeguet goes under the radar compared to some of his teammates, but he is an important figure in his own right.
A first league goal of the campaign would be just what the doctor ordered.
Jack Grealish
Grealish was sensational at Leicester City last weekend – is there a more in-form player in the league at the moment?
Villa’s hopes will again rest largely on the silky forward’s shoulders and he will relish being the centre of attention once more.
Ollie Watkins
Watkins drew a blank at Leicester, following his hat-trick against Liverpool, but he should again lead the line at Villa Park.
The 24-year-old will be aiming to link-up with those around him, and also get on the scoresheet.
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Will Villa finish in the top half of the Premier League this season?
Yes
No
