Unai Emery to axe Nicolo Zaniolo as John McGinn decision made – Aston Villa predicted XI v Brentford
Unai Emery is set to recall seven players to the starting lineup for the Aston Villa clash against Brentford at Villa Park this Saturday (6 April).
Against Manchester City, the Villa boss opted to make many changes to include some fringe players in the starting XI.
This saw youngsters Tim Iroegbunam and Jhon Duran come in while experienced heads like Clement Lenglet, Lucas Digne and Nicolo Zaniolo joined them. The shock change came as Robin Olsen replaced Emi Martinez just minutes before kick-off due to illness.
Despite some overall positive performances from those entering the fold from the start, they are all likely to drop back out straight away.
Olsen was productive in between the sticks as he made seven saves despite conceding four goals [FotMob]. However, if Martinez is fit and able to start at Villa Park he will take his place back from the Swede.
Two of the back four are expected to keep their places against the Bees with Ezri Konsa and Diego Carlos on the right side. Partnering them will be the Spanish duo of Pau Torres and Alex Moreno who will come back in. Against Wolves, Torres (57) and Carlos (66) registered the most completed passes on the pitch and performed well together [FotMob].
John McGinn set for Aston Villa return
To have John McGinn back from suspension is going to be a huge boost for Emery and the Villa fans, he is expected to come straight back in for Morgan Rogers. Alongside him will be Douglas Luiz who may keep his place post Man City.
In another two changes to the side, Youri Tielemans and Leon Bailey are predicted to come back in, in place of Ireogbunam and Zaniolo. The latter had a night to forget at the Etihad and is worthy of a place back on the bench after losing the most duels (70%) in the match with seven out of ten lost [FotMob].
A well-taken goal against the Citizens may prove to be enough for Duran to keep his place against Brentford. With that being said, if Ollie Watkins is fit, he is certain to be starting against his former club.
Alongside him, Moussa Diaby is set to make yet another start as he looks to continue a good run of form despite no goal involvement vs City.
In other Aston Villa news, a journalist has raged at “unfair” criticism of Ollie Watkins after what the striker did for England.
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