Aston Villa kick off their second season in the Championship on Saturday when they play host to relegated Hull City. Here is a look at how the Villans could line up as they get things kicked off with a tough match up.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper: Johnstone
Sam Johnstone was wanted, reportedly, by a number of sides across England but former Manchester United player Steve Bruce was able to bring him in on loan again after his spell last year. Look for him to pick up where he left off last term in net.
Defenders: Hutton, Terry, Chester, Taylor
New captain John Terry will get a shot at his first competitive fixture outside of Chelsea, and he will marshal a back line with plenty of Premier League experience in it. Taylor down the left will be a big threat going forward.
Defensive Midfielders: Lansbury, Whelan
Glenn Whelan made the move from Stoke in the summer, and he’ll play a key role in the center for them in this match and throughout the season. He will help control the tempo and allow the flair players to do what they do best, while providing Lansbury a chance to play more freely.
Attacking Midfielders: Agbonlahor, Green , Elmohamady
Agbonlahor has been showing an uptick in form, and it will be hoped he can become what he was years ago. Elmohamady remains a great threat from out wide and has a mean cross.
Forward: Hogan
With Jonathan Kodija still easing his way back into fitness, Hogan should lead the line here. The former Bradford man scored a bundle of goals before his transfer late in January, and needs to pick up his play if he’s to prove capable of the shirt.
