Predicted Aston Villa Lineup vs Newcastle United – Duran to start up front
Yesterday at 03:00 PM
Aston Villa will travel to St. James’ Park on Boxing Day to take on a buoyant Newcastle United side in the Premier League.
The Villans claimed a 2-1 win over Manchester City at the weekend, thanks to goals from Jhon Duran and Morgan Rogers, leapfrogging Pep Guardiola's side in the table to go sixth at Christmas. They have won three of their last five league games, so Unai Emery's side are in a decent run of form heading into the game.
Expect an even and tactical game when the two sides square off. Newcastle smashed newly promoted side Ipswich Town 4-0 at Portman Road in their last game, and they have been scoring a lot lately. The Magpies have scored 10 goals in their last 3 games.
Aston Villa Team News
Unai Emery should have an almost fully fit squad to choose from for this game. Jacob Ramsey is set to be the only absentee with a return expected early in the New Year.
Diego Carlos missed the game against Manchester City over the weekend due to a minor injury but should be available for selection against Newcastle.
Predicted Aston Villa Lineup vs Newcastle United (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
There is no looking past Emiliano Martinez in goal for Aston Villa. The Argentinean will be required to produce big moments if called upon in midweek.
Defence
The back four is unlikely to undergo any changes. Ezri Konsa should once again partner Pau Torres in central defence, with Matty Cash and Lucas Digne retaining their full-back spots in the Aston Villa lineup.
The entire defensive unit has to be disciplined and vigilant to deal with Newcastle's in-form front three on Boxing Day. Diego Carlos and Tyrone Mings should offer strength in depth in defence from the bench.
Midfield
Boubacar Kamara, Amadou Onana, and Youri Tielemans were outstanding against Manchester City, dominating the midfield battles with their physicality and technical skills. The double pivot of Kamara and Onana allowed Tielemans to thrive as an advanced No.10, exploiting spaces behind City's midfield.
The troika will come up against Newcastle's strong midfield unit, and if they can constantly disrupt their rhythm, Villa's chances of getting a result at St James' Park will become higher.
Attack
Morgan Rogers has been Villa's best player this season and deserves to keep his place in the side. He will start on the left flank, with John McGinn operating from the opposite side in the Aston Villa lineup.
Jhon Duran has started the last two games and scored in each of them. The Colombian is expected to get the nod ahead of Ollie Watkins up front again. Watkins, Leon Bailey, Ross Barkley and Emi Buendia could get minutes to impress in the second half.
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