View: Aston Villa predicted XI v Arsenal – Jacob Ramsey to drop out, Jhon Duran to start
Aston Villa will be looking to avoid three defeats in a row as Unai Emery’s side host league-leaders Arsenal at Villa Park on Saturday afternoon.
The Villans are coming off of a damaging defeat to Manchester City, a performance which left a lot to be desired, particularly in the first half.
Emery could look to make a number of changes for the visit of Arsenal and here Villa News predicts how his side could set up against the Gunners.
Jhon Duran was introduced in the 60th minute against the Premier League champions and made a promising cameo. Leon Bailey endured a tough afternoon at the Etihad and the inconsistent winger could make way for Villa’s January signing.
Another player who could well come into the starting lineup is John McGinn. The Scotland international replaced Jacob Ramsey against Pep Guardiola’s side and could well start against the Gunners. Ramsey struggled at the weekend and gave away a penalty in the first half.
The 21-year-old has not been the same player since returning from injury and could face the consequences against Arsenal.
McGinn will likely be joined by Emi Buendia in a more advanced midfield role, with Boubacar Kamara and Douglas Luiz operating in the holding positions.
We could also see Emery shuffling the pack in the full-back positions. Ashley Young was subbed off at the Etihad and could well relinquish his starting spot to Matty Cash. The former Nottingham Forest man has been on the periphery under the Spaniard but is certainly due a run of games in the starting eleven.
Alex Moreno could also return to the starting lineup, with Ezri Konsa and Calum Chambers making up the rest of the defence, with Tyrone Mings out injured. Emi Martinez will start in goal after making a number of saves against City.
In other Aston Villa news, the club face competition from Barcelona to secure the signing of a striker at the end of the season.