Unai Emery could axe Lucas Digne for Aston Villa showdown v Wolves in Premier League
Dan Bardell believes Ian Maatsen could start ahead of Lucas Digne at left-back for Aston Villa against Wolves at Villa Park on Saturday 21 September.
The Villans are preparing for a clash against their Midlands rivals after opening their Champions League campaign with a 3-0 win against Young Boys in midweek.
This could see Unai Emery utilise his squad and allow some of his key players a rest against Gary O’Neil’s side.
Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell thinks a similar starting XI will be used ahead of a League Cup game next week.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bardell said: “I think if we didn’t have this cup game on Tuesday, I think there is a decent chance [Jhon] Duran might have started against Wolves.
“There is going to be a time when he starts games in the Premier League and there will be an element of rotation with Ollie Watkins.
“Maybe we’ll see Maatsen on Saturday instead of Lucas Digne. Other than that I don’t envisage many changes.
“I think because we played on Tuesday there’s been enough downtime going into this game.“
Jhon Duran could miss out again for Aston Villa v Wolves
Colombia international Duran has started the season in electric fashion, scoring three goals off the bench in four Premier League games.
This was capped off with a world-class strike which won the game against Everton after coming from 2-0 down to take all three points.
It has to be said that if this form continues, the 20-year-old will be demanding more regular minutes and potentially starting roles.
Emery is clearly trying to temper his expectations after a summer full of turmoil which will likely be positive for his development.
There is a chance that Duran is handed a start against Wolves but Watkins will also be throwing his cap in the ring to keep his role.
In other Aston Villa news, Unai Emery to make call after injury development in predicted XI against Wolves.
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