Aaron Danks will be in the dugout for Villa at the weekend with Unai Emery set to take charge on November 1 following Steven Gerrard’s departure from Villa Park. Villa currently sit 15th in the Premier League table and will be hoping to capitalise on last weekend’s 4-0 hammering of Brentford.
Newcastle, on the other hand, sit 4th in the table and could move up to 3rd with a win at the weekend as Eddie Howe’s side look to make it three wins on the spin and back-to-back wins over Saturday’s opponents. The last meeting between the sides came in February and ended in a 1-0 win for the Magpies courtesy of a Kieran Trippier free-kick.
Ahead of this weekend’s game Howe has a number of selection issues to contend with and here, we take a look at the starting side he could select on Saturday:
5. LB: Dan Burn
Burn has performed brilliantly at left-back over the last few weeks, form that is keeping Matt Targett out of the starting line-up. Burn dealt superbly with all Spurs had to throw at them on Sunday and will hope to do the same against some tricky Villa wingers. Photo: George Wood
6. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
The Brazilian has been nothing short of superb this season and even managed to put in another fantastic display last weekend - despite having two sleepless nights in preparation. Photo: George Wood
7. CM: Sean Longstaff
Longstaff has really come into his own in the middle of midfield and covers every blade of grass during games. Jonjo Shelvey’s return to fitness means there is added midfield competition but Longstaff’s performances have warranted a starting spot. Photo: George Wood
8. CM: Joe Willock
Willock has become a favourite under Howe with his energy, pace and creativity in midfield becoming a really important part of the way Newcastle play. His link-up with Joelinton was superb last weekend. Photo: Tom Dulat