Aston Villa v Sunderland: Team News, predicted line up, match preview

Aston Villa v Sunderland is one important clash for both sides’ domestic campaign on Sunday this weekend.

Villa has been flying high lately with their positive results. They have been unbeaten in all competitions in the last five games. The Clarets and Blues have been on course in the Premier League and Europa League.

Nevertheless, finishing in the top four or a Champions League spot remains Villa’s main target, as their boss, Unai Emery, has underlined their focus this season, as he is pleased with his side’s progressive campaign.

Thus, the encounter this weekend against Sunderland will not be taken lightly. The Villa boss reserves his view on their opposition, as reported by avfc.co.uk.

“Sunderland, especially when we played there, the team reacted fantastically. After that match, they reacted fantastically, and our progression and how we are now are because of everything we did; better or worse, we learnt, and we used it for our process.

“And now, we are in different momentum, but the difficulties on Sunday are coming the same as we faced in Sunderland at that moment.

“They are motivated. They are excited as well, and they are with the real possibility to play in Europe next year, and they can feel, as well, if they are beating us, they are close with us.”

John McGinn and Co. will try to stay in form and aim for three points to topple Manchester United. The Red Devils, which suffered an unexpected loss last weekend at home, could stumble again as they visit Stamford Bridge. Should they lose again to Chelsea and Villa pick up a win, they could climb to third in the standings.

 The highly motivated Ollie Watkins

Villa’s main frontman, Ollie Watkins, has just joined the 100-goal club after netting the opener in their 4-0 win over Bologna in the midweek. This definitely boosts his confidence and motivation.

 The England international shared his next target, scoring 100 Premier League goals. It would absolutely help his team to seal another win at home. This could be a nightmare for the Black Cats. Their defence line is not as solid as expected, with their goal aggregate being minus 3 despite sitting on the 10th on the table.

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Team News

The Lions should be relieved as Emiliano Martinez is back on the team despite his sudden calf injury last week. He already featured in the midweek game. Thus, he is expected to be available for this weekend’s fixture.

Moreover, Jadon Sancho has been available too, although he might need more minutes to get back to his ideal physical fitness. The only names who would be unavailable are Boubacar Kamara and the Brazilian youngster, Alysson Franco.

Nevertheless, Unai Emery might consider rotating the squad, at least in several positions, to keep the balance in the team’s form. Martinez still likely gets a nod between the sticks; Pau Torres and Ezri Konsa are selected for the centre backs with Matty Cash on the right and Ian Maatsen on the left side.

In the midfield, Douglas Luiz and Rose Barkley could be named in the starting XI to give Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans a rest. Meanwhile, Morgan Rogers will be playing as the number 10 supported by John McGinn and Emi Buendia on both wings, and Ollie Watkins will be leading the line up front.

Where to watch Aston Villa v Sunderland

The clash of Aston Villa and Sunderland will be available on Sky Sports Premier League, Sky Go Extra, and Sky Go UK on TV as well as live streaming. The fans can also enjoy this game on NOW TV.

 

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