Unai Emery axes Leon Bailey in two changes – Aston Villa predicted XI v West Ham
Unai Emery could axe Leon Bailey and hand Donyell Malen his Aston Villa debut in two changes to the starting XI against West Ham United on Sunday.
The Jamaica international could make way for the January signing who could be joined by Jacob Ramsey from the start at Villa Park on 26 January.
This could also see Emi Buendia drop out of the side after coming in for the Champions League defeat against Monaco on Tuesday (21 January).
With the injury issues that the Villa boss is faced with, there are very few alternatives available in his squad for the visit of the Hammers.
Unai Emery axes Leon Bailey for Aston Villa v West Ham
There is potential for changes in forward areas in B6 for the upcoming clash but the defensive line from the loss in France could be replicated.
This could see Emi Martinez keep his place after making three saves [FotMob] against Monaco while Matty Cash and Lucas Digne remain at full-back.
The Poland international won 100 per cent of tackles and nine duels on the continent, putting him at the front of the queue to start despite the addition of Andres Garcia.
In the centre, Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa could be in line to start together again despite the latter making just one successful tackle last time out.
The midfield could also have a familiar look with Youri Tielemans and Boubacar Kamara set to start again after putting up a combined 14 duel successes at the Stade Louis-II.
Morgan Rogers could slide across into the number ten role after completing two dribbles in the Champions League and be joined by Ramsey and Malen on the flanks.
This could see Buendia and Bailey be benched, the former Bayer Leverkusen man missed two big chances and maintained a cross accuracy of zero per cent in the principality, summing up his season.
Up front, Emery once again has a decision to make but could stand by Watkins despite him missing one big chance against Monaco. This will see Jhon Duran start on the bench after a quiet 33-minute cameo in mid-week.
In other Aston Villa news, a third transfer of the winter window is now “very close” to being agreed.
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