Credit: Imago

Samuel Fabre

Sat 21 March 2026 10:54, UK

Tammy Abraham will likely be dropped from the starting lineup when Aston Villa host West Ham in the Premier League on Sunday.

The Villans lost 3-1 to Man United last Sunday, and although their Premier League form has dipped significantly, they have a perfect opportunity to return to winning ways against the Hammers.

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are currently in the relegation zone, but having won 15 points from their last nine matches, it won’t be easy for Unai Emery’s men.

However, the Brummies saw off Lille in the Europa League on Thursday, and morale will be high in the dressing room as they look to end the season well in both competitions they’re playing in.

Aston Villa’s clash with West Ham has huge ramifications at both ends of the table, and Emery may look to make four changes from the team that beat Lille 2-0 in midweek.

Ollie Watkins to replace Tammy Abraham vs West Ham

Abraham has shown signs of promise since returning to B6 in the winter transfer window, although he hasn’t hit the level everyone knows he is capable of.

Despite scoring twice in two matches in the middle of February, the English striker still has a lot to prove if he wants to start consistently over Ollie Watkins.

According to Sofascore, Abraham has only registered a pass accuracy of 60.6 per cent, which is far from good enough if the Villans want to dominate possession in the top flight.

After a disappointing display against Lille, Emery may turn to Watkins, who has six goal contributions in 11 appearances versus West Ham.

In defence, Pau Torres is expected to come into the side for Victor Lindelof, while Lucas Digne could replace Ian Maatsen at left-back.

The final change is expected to see Lamare Bogarde make way, with Matty Cash set to make his first start since returning from injury in the 4-1 loss to Chelsea at the start of March.

The rest of the side will likely stay the same, and it is a huge opportunity for Jadon Sancho to impress in the top flight.

Why Jadon Sancho is bound to start performing in the Premier League for Aston Villa

Against Lille, the Man United loanee latched on to a long ball from Emi Martinez, before picking out John McGinn in the box with a perfect ball.

The Scotland international made no mistake, and as a result, Sancho recorded his first assist in the Europa League for Villa.

However, Sancho has been criticised numerous times this season, as he has failed to score in 20 league appearances for the Villans.

Understandably, Villa fans demand a lot from their wide players, but Sancho is slowly beginning to show glimpses of promise.

Against a West Ham side that have only conceded 55 goals this season, he could run riot on the right wing.

And if he does put in another promising performance, then Emery will have no choice but to start him for the remaining big games this campaign.