Douglas Luiz to make Aston Villa starting XI v Chelsea as team news prediction emerges
Ty Bracey believes Douglas Luiz has to start on his return from suspension when Aston Villa face Chelsea on Saturday (27 April).
The Brazilian international picked up his 10th yellow card of the season in the 3-3 draw with Brentford on 6 April, meaning he had to serve a two-match suspension.
Luiz is now available return to Unai Emery’s starting XI as the Villans look to extend their lead over Spurs in the race for Champions League qualification.
Bracey believes Luiz has to come back in and start despite his teammates winning back-to-back Premier League games without him.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bracey said: “He must start. He’s very important to the team. Who gets dropped? I don’t know but he is someone who should be starting game in game out. We’ve done alright without him there but I think he’s very important to us and has to be starting every game.
“It’s a tough one, they’re all playing well. Diaby is playing well, Rogers is finding his feet and getting well into it and obviously Bailey’s having an exceptional season.
“I don’t know who he comes in for but I think it’s very important we have Luiz in front of the back four, absolutely.”
Who should Douglas Luiz replace for Aston Villa?
Villa have been in excellent form in the Premier League in recent weeks. A famous 2-0 win v Arsenal was added to by a 3-1 comeback victory over Bournemouth.
Luiz missed these games through suspension but watching, you wouldn’t realise such an important player was absent.
Against the Cherries, it was John McGinn and Youri Tielemans who occupied the middle of the pitch after their showing at the Emirates.
Rogers has found himself in various positions in the midfield and as a second striker. Given his lack of top-league experience, he has been superb.
Diaby has played in similar roles and after a goal last time out, he will be looking to maintain his spot in the starting XI.
Luiz will likely be recalled by Emery in a move which will see McGinn play further wide. He will then decide between his young Englishman or flying Frenchman.
With lots of game time recently, Rogers may benefit from a rest against the Blues and have the opportunity off the bench.
In other Aston Villa news, Alisha Lehmann could depart Aston Villa Women as three foreign clubs show interest.
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