Aston Villa predicted XI vs Brentford: Johan Manzambi axed, first start in pipeline

Aston Villa are set to return from international break to face Brentford on Saturday.

The Villans are back in Premier League action this weekend as Villa Park opens its doors.

Welcoming the Bees to B6 will come exactly four weeks after a terrific result away to Tottenham.

Goals from Johan Manzambi, Nicolas Jackson and Emi Buendia made sure of a big three points before an extended break.

That was just what Unai Emery and Co. needed after a difficult start to the campaign.

It doesn't get any easier with Brentford travelling to the Midlands as we assess how Villa could line-up.

Could Taylor Harwood-Bellis start vs Brentford?

There are finally signs that the Spanish head coach is starting to trust in his new signings.

Zion Suzuki has arguably been the best of the bunch having made a stellar start, continuing that against Tottenham with five saves.

The Japan international could start once again, but could sit behind a newly configured backline.

Victor Lindelof and Tyrone Mings could both drop out, despite a combined 19 defensive actions in North London, with Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Pau Torres potentially set to come in.

That would represent a first start as a pair, with them seen as the longer-term defensive solution in B6.

It could be a more familiar feeling either side of them as Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Matteo Ruggeri could start once again.

They could all be backed up by Boubacar Kamara and Joao Gomes once again after they put up seven tackles between them against Tottenham.

Why Johan Manzambi could be benched at Aston Villa

There could be a surprise change in the offing against the Bees.

Manzambi is coming off the back of his first Villa goal and a stellar international break.

Emery could still look to shuffle the forward line and bring Emi Buendia back into the middle after his stunner last time around.

John McGinn could occupy the right despite his zero per cent dribble success and five duel losses against Spurs.

This pair could be joined by a fresh face as Alejandro Garnacho could be given his first B6 start.

The Argentine scored against Sevilla and looks sharp, so may be rewarded for his efforts.

They may then all be working in tandem to supply Jackson who could be set to start once again after a goal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.