Aston Villa predicted XI v Olympiacos: Unai Emery to reinstate Diego Carlos, two changes
Unai Emery could bring Diego Carlos back into the Aston Villa starting XI v Olympiacos as he looks to sure up the defence after a sloppy showing against Chelsea.
The Brazilian centre-back was at the heart of controversy as he adjudged to have been fouled by Benoit Badiashile late in the game to deny Chelsea a winner in the 2-2 draw at Villa Park (27 April).
What will have particularly frustrated Emery is the way his side were seemingly coasting before defensive lapses saw them pegged back from a two-goal cushion.
The boss will now likely look to change things up as his side prepare for the Conference League semi-final first leg against Olympiacos (2 May).
He came off injured against Chelsea but, due to suspension, Emi Martinez was always going to miss the clash. Robin Olsen replaced the Argentine at halftime at Villa Park and is likely to do so again after making two saves last time out [FotMob].
After a defensive showing where he won just 43 per cent of his duels [FotMob] Matty Cash may be dropped. Ezri Konsa could be preferred for that position up against Daniel Podence for the Greek outfit.
This potential change could see Carlos slot back into the centre of defence alongside Pau Torres. The Spaniard had an 82 per cent pass accuracy last time out [FotMob], which once again showed his importance for playing out from the back. With Olsen behind them, this duo are going to have to be in top form once again.
With Alex Moreno injured, Lucas Digne could keep his role at left back for the Villans despite winning just 25 per cent of tackles against Chelsea [FotMob].
Youri Tielemans to miss Aston Villa v Olympiacos
After coming off at Villa Park, Tielemans is likely to miss weeks rather than days for Villa. His absence will see John McGinn drop back into midfield alongside Douglas Luiz who had a stinker against Chelsea.
No tackles won or successful dribbles while having just a 33 per cent duel win rate [FotMob] wasn’t good enough and he must bounce back.
Out wide, Morgan Rogers looks set to keep his place in the starting XI after another Premier League goal. On the other flank, Leon Bailey could keep his place despite a quiet performance last time out. He completed two dribbles [FotMob] but failed to get much change out of Marc Cucarella.
Moussa Diaby replaced Tielemans and was poor as he was later substituted off by Emery which saw him storm down the tunnel. He had just 12 touches [FotMob] and failed to make any impact in an attacking or defensive sense.
Up front, Ollie Watkins should keep his place as he looks to get back on the scoresheet for the first time since Arsenal (14 April).
In other Aston Villa news, a doctor has issued an “unfortunate” response as footage has emerged of Tyrone Mings with an update on his current situation.
For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.