Whelan at RB, Grabban starts – Strongest 4-1-4-1 Aston Villa XI to face Middlesbrough

Share
Aston Villa got a vital win in the first leg of this playoff tie and in truth, they could’ve won it by a couple had it not been for some great work from Darren Randolph in the Middlesbrough goal. They will be very pleased with the nature of the victory and how they played.

Middlesbrough, however, were not up to their usual high standards and Pulis will be very irritated that they conceded the goal from a set-piece. They will be fired up for the second leg and it could be a fascinating game.

Probable Aston Villa XI

Manager: Steve Bruce

Formation: 4-1-4-1

Sam Johnstone (GK)

Johnstone risked missing the birth of his child to play in the first leg of the playoffs and will do so again for this second leg. Dedication to the cause.

Alan Hutton (LB)

Hutton had a great game in the first leg of the playoff. He defended excellently while also pushing forward well down the left-hand side.

John Terry (CB)

John Terry was commanding and looked like every inch the captain of the team in the previous game. Will be looking to stay strong again in the second leg.

John Terry

James Chester (CB)

Chester continued to excel with John Terry by his side in the first leg and will be hoping for another clean sheet this time around.

Glenn Whelan (RB)

Elmohamady got injured in the first leg and with no direct replacements available, Glenn Whelan may have to step into the role.

Mile Jedinak (CDM)

Jedinak was preferred to Whelan in the first leg and his performance definitely merited his inclusion. Will be looking to keep up this level of performance in the next game as well.

Conor Hourihane

Albert Adomah (LM)

Bruce continues to stick with Adomah in the hope that he will recapture his best form. Bruce is likely to go with the left-winger again, for the second leg.

Conor Hourihane (CM)

Hourihane came back into the squad for the first leg of the playoffs and did alright. He offers experience in the middle of the park, which is essential for games like these.

Jack Grealish (CM)

Had a fantastic game in the first leg and is the first name on Steve Bruce’s teamsheet. His skill and trickery can change the game for Villa.

Lewis Grabban

Robert Snodgrass (RM)

Snodgrass will be looking to go again in the second leg and push Aston Villa over the line and a step closer to the Premier League.

Lewis Grabban (ST)

Grabban was quiet in the first game and will be looking to make up for it in the second leg. Will want a goal.

Joe Mills

Recent Posts

The Vital Role of Communication on the Soccer Field: Unlocking Success in Leagues

Communication is the heartbeat of any successful soccer team. On the field, amidst the flurry…

1 day ago

The Brilliance of Paul Scholes: A Midfield Maestro’s Illustrious Career

In the annals of football history, few names evoke as much reverence and admiration as…

2 weeks ago

Online games on Football

Are you new to the world of football betting and would you like to take…

3 weeks ago

Using Soccer News to Enhance Your Game Strategy

If you are into sports betting, staying ahead of the game is crucial. One way…

4 weeks ago

Interesting Facts About Football: 40 Questions and Answers

I have prepared some interesting and fun football facts for you, perfect for those who love the  thrill of discovery almost as much as the excitement found at https://www.staycasino.com/. Like the  unpredictable nature of casino games, these facts will surprise and intrigue you with unexpected  twists and turns in the world of football. Here is the complete list of 40 interesting and fun facts  about football.  What are the most interesting facts about football?  Football was invented in Italy, Messi is the highest-paid athlete, and the fastest a player has  been sent off is 0 seconds!  Stay ahead with these facts and impress with your knowledge. This collection contains many  football facts that will surprise you. Tell your friends new facts they don't know.  Interesting Facts About Football  Every football fan should know these facts. You can also surprise your children with what they  don't know!  When was football invented?  Modern football originated from the Florentine game of Calcio Fiorentino, played in the 14th …

4 weeks ago

Real Sociedad vs PSG preview, team news, tickets and prediction

Real Sociedad returns to the midst of Europe's elite clubs in the UEFA Champions League…

1 month ago