Following the progress against Middlesbrough last time out, Aston Villa are back in the FA Cup fourth round. This is the first time since a game against Wycombe Wanderers back in 2016.
This time around the Villans and Unai Emery travel to Stamford Bridge as they look to progress once again.
Given that there has been a winter break in the past week, a strong starting XI is set to be utilised in this game. There are various injuries for Emery to contend with but the majority of his starting side is still available.
With all that being said, here is our Aston Villa v Chelsea predicted XI…
As always, Emi Martinez will keep his place in the starting XI even though it is the FA Cup. Although it may be considered to give Robin Olsen a run-out, that risk can not be taken. Villa fans want the cup to be taken seriously and as a result, the Argentine makes our predicted XI.
The back four is set to be without Pau Torres once again due to injury. As a result, we suggest that the two centre-backs should be Clement Lenglet and Ezri Konsa.
The left-back chooses itself at the moment as Alex Moreno is the only one who is fit right now. On the other flank, we have selected Matty Cash for our predicted XI as he comes in for Diego Carlos.
The midfield four is yet another that selects itself right now, especially given the break that the players have had. In the centre of the park, Boubacar Kamara and Douglas Luiz will combine to make their trademark duo.
On one flank, will be the captain John McGinn who needs to rediscover some form. On the other Leon Bailey will start as he looks to maintain his great form from the start of the season.
In the hole behind the striker, Moussa Diaby will be looking to get back on the goalscoring trail against Chelsea. Given his up and down form in recent weeks he needs to improve to maintain a place in our predicted XI.
Upfront will be the undroppable Ollie Watkins who has been superb this season. He has been without a goal since December so will be looking for a goal of his own.
