‘Powerhouse’ benched as Emery makes Nicolo Zaniolo call - Aston Villa predicted XI v Hibernian - gallery

Charlie Haffenden
·2-min read
Given the importance of the game, we doubt Emery will go for the approach of using Robin Olsen like he often does in the cups.

Aston Villa begin their long-awaited UEFA Europa Conference League campaign on Wednesday evening as they travel to Edinburgh to take on Scottish Premiership side Hibernian in the first leg of the play-off stage.

Kicking off at Easter Road in the unusual 5.45pm slot to avoid clashing with the UEFA Champions League fixtures, the Villans will be eager to earn a lead heading into the second leg at Villa Park next Thursday.

Unai Emery’s side will be brimming with renewed confidence after responding to the 5-1 defeat at Newcastle United with a 4-0 victory over Everton last time out, while captain John McGinn will be excited to take on his former club.

Played a lot better last time out after a shaky trip to St. James’ Park. Still the best option at right-back.
Played a lot better last time out after a shaky trip to St. James’ Park. Still the best option at right-back.

The Scotland international midfielder is bound to start his reunion match but other positions aren’t so secure following injuries suffered at the weekend and the potential for slight rotation given the mounting fixture congestion.

With that in mind, here are the 11 players we think Emery will name in his starting lineup, as well as brief explanations for each inclusion.

Just like Cash, put in a much better shift at the weekend. Likely to make Diego Carlos wait for a start, for now at least.
Looks so assured at centre-back already, especially when in possession. His experience in Europe could be vital.
Looks so assured at centre-back already, especially when in possession. His experience in Europe could be vital.
Despite recent transfer speculation, the Frenchman was one of the best players on the field against Everton.
Despite recent transfer speculation, the Frenchman was one of the best players on the field against Everton.
Netted against Newcastle effective in the 4-0 win over Everton. Moves to right midfield to allow for a different inclusion at shadow striker.
Netted against Newcastle effective in the 4-0 win over Everton. Moves to right midfield to allow for a different inclusion at shadow striker.
Yet to start competitively for Villa and will be keen to step in. Although Kamara is a powerhouse, Tielemans is also strong defensively.
Scored from the spot at the weekend and looked a lot more like himself again. One of the first names on the team sheet.
Scored from the spot at the weekend and looked a lot more like himself again. One of the first names on the team sheet.
Has slotted in nicely in the left midfield role and simply has to play against his former side in what is a rather romantic reunion.
Has slotted in nicely in the left midfield role and simply has to play against his former side in what is a rather romantic reunion.
Heads straight into the starting XI following injuries to Leon Bailey and Philippe Coutinho. Has worked effectively in the past just behind the striker.
Remains the biggest goal threat in the side and now has a new creative force behind him in Zaniolo.
Remains the biggest goal threat in the side and now has a new creative force behind him in Zaniolo.
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - AUGUST 20: Douglas Luiz of Aston Villa celebrates with teammate Ollie Watkins after scoring the team's second goal from a penalty kick during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Everton FC at Villa Park on August 20, 2023 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)